According to a report by The Wall Street Journal, Elon Musk made the final decision to throttle the speed of the Starshield satellite system used by Ukraine. This restriction limits data connectivity for terminals moving at speeds exceeding 160 kph, which impacts the operation of Ukrainian offensive and interceptor drones.
The decision followed discussions between Musk and senior US administration officials, including President Trump. While the White House and Trump have denied ordering the slowdown, sources indicate that Musk sought clarity on the administration's stance regarding Ukrainian attacks on Russian oil refineries before implementing the cap.
SpaceX and White House representatives reportedly coordinated their messaging to manage the public backlash following the implementation of the restrictions. Musk has publicly stated that Starshield systems are under US government control, while Ukrainian officials maintain that the speed limits remain in effect, causing equipment to malfunction at speeds between 130 and 161 kph.
The conflict over satellite access highlights the role of SpaceX in the region. Since February 2022, Starlink has provided broadband services to Ukraine. In August 2024, SpaceX secured a Pentagon contract to expand Starshield access, which reportedly allowed for the connection of 2,500 additional terminals to the existing network of 500 units.
