Key facts
- SpaceX imposed speed limits on Starlink terminals for Ukraine's military on Oct. 14.
- The speed cap limits terminals to 100 mph (160 kph) when in motion.
- The restrictions disrupted drone operations and frontline logistics.
- Ukrainian officials suspect the move is linked to U.S. pressure to halt strikes on Russian oil assets.
- Elon Musk stated the U.S. president has ultimate authority over Starlink usage limits.
- Service was reportedly stabilized later on Oct. 14, but the speed limit remained.
SpaceX implemented speed restrictions on Starlink terminals for the Ukrainian military on Oct. 14, limiting speeds to 100 miles per hour (160 kilometers per hour) and disrupting drone operations. Ukrainian officials believe the move is tied to U.S. pressure on Kyiv to halt strikes on Russian oil assets. Elon Musk stated that the U.S. president has ultimate authority over such limitations, noting that Starshield systems are controlled by the U.S. military and usage is restricted to civilian or defensive activities.
Presidential adviser Serhii "Flash" Beskrestnov confirmed the restrictions, stating they severely disrupted military missions. The Defense Ministry later confirmed service stabilization at 160 kph, though actual speeds were lower during the day. The ministry is negotiating with SpaceX for stable service conditions and to prevent future restrictions.
Earlier in the year, Ukraine worked with SpaceX to deactivate unauthorized Starlink terminals used by Russian forces. Starlink has been critical for Ukrainian military communications throughout the war.