Ukraine’s satellite speeds return as US lawmakers demand answers
Ukrainian officials reported on 24 October that satellite connection speeds had been restored after restrictions affected Starlink and Starshield, but said it remained unclear who imposed them or what would happen next, according to RFE/RL. Bipartisan US lawmakers are pressing for uninterrupted access and congressional oversight, while also challenging the Trump administration’s decision to authorise transactions involving Russian diesel.
Bottom line — Eight lawmakers want the Pentagon to guarantee Ukraine’s access to Starlink and Starshield.
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RFE/RL reports that eight lawmakers urged Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth to expand the Pentagon’s Starshield contract and ensure reliable access to both services.
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The lawmakers called for unrestricted speeds, coverage for Ukraine’s military operations, including over Russian territory, and a seamless move from commercial Starlink to Starshield.
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RFE/RL says Ukrainian officials reported that restrictions introduced on 13 October disrupted communications for drones and other platforms moving faster than 160 km/h.
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A bill introduced by Republican Brian Fitzpatrick would nullify a Treasury waiver authorising Russian diesel transactions and prohibit future waivers; it has been referred to three House committees.
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The waiver is due to expire on 7 April 2027, according to RFE/RL.
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Democratic lawmakers have asked SpaceX chief executive Elon Musk who authorised the restrictions and what conditions Ukraine must meet to regain full access.
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Senator Richard Blumenthal is seeking written answers from Musk by 5 November and a briefing from SpaceX officials by 12 November.
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Accounts of who controlled the restrictions conflict: Secretary of State Marco Rubio denied that Trump or administration officials ordered or knew about them in advance; Musk said decisions ultimately rest with the US military and president.