U.S. Senators Order Musk to Save Records on Ukraine Starlink Limits

Democratic U.S. senators have told Elon Musk to keep all records about his company SpaceX limiting Ukraine's use of Starlink and Starshield satellite services. Senators Jeanne Shaheen of New Hampshire and Chris Coons of Delaware sent a letter to Mr. Musk giving him until November 30 to give written proof that he has saved these records. Ukrainian forces rely on Starshield for frontline communications and drone operations while defending against Russian attacks. Ukrainian officials complained in mid-October that the service was restricted without warning, which slowed down their interceptor drones and limited complex strike missions. The lawmakers asked for SpaceX records going back to September 1, including all talks about the services in Ukraine and messages between Musk, SpaceX bosses, and the White House and Pentagon. Secretary of State Marco Rubio said decisions on the service were up to SpaceX and Musk, disputing an earlier Reuters report that the White House ordered the limits. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy stated on Thursday, November 12, 2026, that military units had recorded new disruptions to Starshield communications after Ukraine previously said the services were working normally later in October.

Context

Satellite internet networks like Starlink have become critical tools for modern militaries to maintain secure battlefield communications. When private companies control such vital infrastructure, questions often arise about national security and corporate decision-making during active conflicts.