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Speed restrictions on Musk's Starlink lifted in Ukraine, defense ministry says
The Ukrainian military's satellite system, which is owned by Elon Musk, has been fully restored after two weeks of restrictions. These restrictions had limited Ukraine's ability to use drones for intercepting Russian attacks and delivering supplies to soldiers. The White House and SpaceX founder and CEO Musk engaged in a blame game. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky viewed the restrictions as retaliation by Trump and Musk for his refusal to halt strikes against Russian oil refineries. Ukraine uses SpaceX's Starlink for communications, ground forces, logistics, and defensive drones. The country also relies on Starshield, controlled by the U.S. government, for offensive military purposes. When Starlink is not at full capacity, Ukraine's intelligence gathering, interceptor drone use, and long-range strike capabilities against Russia are impeded. President Trump denied White House involvement in restricting the system and reports of speaking to Musk. Ukraine's Ministry of Defense confirmed restoration, reporting speeds exceeding 400 kilometers per hour with stable connectivity. The ministry attributed the lifting of restrictions to direct dialogue and a firm stance by Zelensky at the highest level.