Ukraine has reported that new restrictions on Starlink connectivity are interfering with military operations on the front line. Serhiy Beskrestnov, an adviser to President Volodymyr Zelensky, stated that SpaceX implemented overnight speed caps that have already caused the disruption of several missions.
Starlink speed limits impact drone interceptors
According to Beskrestnov, the new rules limit the speed at which devices can move while maintaining a connection to the satellite network. The threshold is set at 100 mph, or 160 km/h. Ukrainian officials said they were not notified of this change before it took effect.
A source within the Ukrainian defence ministry confirmed the issue to the BBC. The source explained that once a vehicle or asset exceeds the 160 km/h threshold, the terminal loses its connection. This technical failure affects the ability to guide interceptors and middle-strike drones, which are critical for shooting down Russian jet-propelled drones.
Beskrestnov described Starlink as the most effective tool for enabling these interceptors to function. He noted that the move cannot be a coincidence and is likely related to the current political situation. SpaceX has not commented on the reported restrictions.
Energy infrastructure under fire
The connectivity issues arise as Ukraine faces severe energy shortages following overnight Russian strikes. At least 600,000 people were left without electricity after missiles and drones hit critical energy infrastructure in Kyiv and Kharkiv. Local officials reported three deaths in the capital.
These attacks contradict claims by US President Donald Trump, who stated on Sunday that an energy ceasefire was in place between the two nations. Zelensky has repeatedly said Ukraine is ready to halt strikes on Russian energy facilities if Moscow does the same. However, Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov dismissed the idea of a truce, arguing that Europe would simply supply Ukraine with more weapons.
Ukraine’s air force reported that Russia launched 39 ballistic and cruise missiles along with 128 drones overnight. While four missiles and 115 drones were shot down, the remaining projectiles caused significant damage. The strikes occurred without warning, bypassing early alert systems that rely on US satellite tracking.
Diplomatic efforts continue
Amid the escalating violence, Zelensky is preparing to meet UK Prime Minister Andy Burnham at Downing Street. The discussions will focus on accelerating air defence supplies to Kyiv. The meeting comes as Russia continues to control approximately 20% of Ukrainian territory since launching its full-scale invasion in 2022.
Ukrainian defence sources stated that the Starlink restrictions also degrade capabilities for front line logistics, reconnaissance, and signal relaying. The loss of connectivity at high speeds creates a significant gap in situational awareness for troops operating mobile assets.
Trump denied on Tuesday that Washington was withholding intelligence sharing if Zelensky did not agree to the energy ceasefire. Meanwhile, Russian forces claimed to have shot down 902 Ukrainian drones overnight over various regions, including Moscow and Crimea.
The situation highlights the growing reliance of the Ukrainian military on commercial satellite internet for survival and offensive capabilities. The sudden imposition of technical limits by a private company adds a new layer of complexity to the conflict.
Source: BBC
