Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy reported that Starlink terminals disconnect when moving at speeds exceeding 161 km/h within Ukraine. Tests showed that identical equipment maintains connectivity at speeds over 180 km/h within the European Union, suggesting geofenced restrictions.
Starlink and Starshield services are critical for Ukrainian military operations, including drone control, logistics, and target identification. By the end of 2024, the number of Starshield terminals in Ukraine supported by US Department of Defense contracts increased from approximately 500 to 3,000 units.
Responsibility for the speed limitations remains disputed. While Elon Musk stated that restrictions are determined by the US military and the President, Donald Trump and Secretary of State Marco Rubio have denied that the US government issued any such orders.
Anonymous sources claim that Elon Musk personally suggested the speed limitations to Donald Trump, who allegedly approved the move. Reports suggest the decision was driven by concerns over potential negative reactions from European consumers following drone attacks in Kyiv.
The controversy has prompted the European Union to accelerate the development of independent satellite communication systems to reduce reliance on US providers. The US Ambassador to the EU warned that prioritizing local suppliers over American companies could lead to retaliatory measures.
