Elon Musk Ordered Cuts to Ukraine Starshield Service, Report Says

Elon Musk ordered a reduction in Starshield communication services for Ukraine, according to a report published on Tuesday, October 20, 2026. Anonymous U.S. officials and people familiar with the matter stated that the tech billionaire capped the connection speed for Ukrainian equipment, which rendered some of Kyiv's drones useless.

Denials and Reactions

U.S. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth stated on the same day that the Pentagon had not directed any changes to the satellite service and insisted nothing had been pulled back. U.S. President Donald Trump also stated on Friday that he did not request any curbs to Starshield, adding that he did not believe Mr. Musk did either. Kyiv had reported restrictions to the service last week shortly after Mr. Trump criticized Ukraine and urged it to stop targeting Russian oil refineries. Ukraine relies on Starshield, a military-grade satellite service by SpaceX, for battlefield communications, mid-range strikes on occupied territory, and interceptor drones, while also utilizing the parallel Starlink civilian system.

Context

Satellite communication networks like Starshield have become essential for modern military operations, especially in conflict zones where ground-based infrastructure is damaged or destroyed. Tensions between the United States and Ukraine have grown recently following disagreements over energy deals and military strategy.