Musk Says SpaceX Blocked Ukraine's Use of Starlink for Offensive Drones Last Week

Elon Musk, CEO of SpaceX, stated on the 24th (local time) that he blocked the Ukrainian military from using the Starlink satellite internet service for offensive drone operations last week.

This statement follows the normalization of the service after Ukrainian forces experienced disruptions in their military operations due to satellite communication restrictions that lasted for over a week.

Writing on social media platform X that day, Musk stated, "The Ukrainian military violated Starlink's terms of service by using it for offensive drone operations to kill people," adding, "That loophole was blocked last week."

He emphasized, "Using Starlink, a private commercial service, for offensive drone operations to kill people was never allowed, nor should it ever be allowed."

However, regarding Starshield, a separate military satellite communication system, Musk distinguished operational responsibilities by stating, "It is controlled by the U.S. government, and how it is used is a matter for them to decide."

Built on the Starlink satellite network, Starshield has played a crucial role in the Ukrainian military's drone operations and communications.

It is an essential technology, particularly for operating medium-range drones, which are a core asset of the Ukrainian military, and for intercepting high-speed Russian drones.

However, it is reported that after Ukraine clashed with the U.S. in mid-October over the "energy ceasefire" proposed by U.S. President Donald Trump and a U.S.-Russia "transit deal," speed limits were placed on Starshield, causing significant disruptions to Ukraine's military capabilities.

Musk also emphasized that Starlink is essential for Ukraine's defense, even mentioning the possibility of a frontline collapse if communication services were cut off.

He argued, "If Starlink were to be cut off, the Ukrainian frontline would immediately collapse," adding, "This is not a threat, but simply stating a fact."

He further criticized those who advocate for continuing the war without realistic solutions as "evil warmongers."

Meanwhile, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy stated that day that the communication functions of Starlink and Starshield have been restored to pre-restriction levels.

The Ukrainian Ministry of Defense also stated in a released statement that day, "Starshield, the military version of Starlink, is currently operating at speeds above 400 km/h," adding, "The connection status is also stable."

(Photo: Getty Images)
※ Please note: This article was translated by AI and may contain errors.