Ukraine Acknowledges Progress as Musk Limits Starlink Access for Russia

Mon Feb 02 2026 21:22:57 GMT+0200 (Eastern European Standard Time)

Ukrainian officials commend Elon Musk's actions to curtail Russian military use of Starlink, attributing it to significant operational successes in the ongoing conflict.

Ukrainian Defense Minister Mykhailo Fedorov has praised Elon Musk for implementing measures that restrict the use of Starlink satellites by Russian forces, highlighting the effectiveness of these actions in diminishing drone operations linked to recent attacks. The measures include a speed limit on Starlink-enabled devices moving across Ukraine and a proposal for registering terminals to prevent unauthorized use. While these changes have received mixed reactions from Russian sources, Ukrainian officials remain optimistic about the potential impact on the battlefield.

Ukrainian Defense Minister Mykhailo Fedorov has publicly commended Elon Musk for the decisive actions taken to limit the use of Starlink satellites by Russian forces, asserting that these measures have produced 'real results' in the conflict. In a recent statement, Fedorov expressed gratitude towards Musk, calling him 'a true champion of freedom and a true friend of the Ukrainian people.'

The restrictions come as a response to concerns that Russian drones, equipped with Starlink technology, were being used to execute deadly attacks in Ukraine. A notable example cited was a strike on a moving passenger train, resulting in six fatalities. Musk confirmed on X platform that steps implemented to prevent unauthorized access to Starlink by Russian operators were successful.

He stated, 'Looks like the steps we took to stop the unauthorized use of Starlink by Russia have worked. Let us know if more needs to be done.'

Starlink, a satellite internet service provided by Musk's SpaceX, has been operational in Ukraine since the early days of the full-scale Russian invasion in February 2022. It's vital for maintaining communication and has been hailed as crucial for the Ukrainian military’s operational capabilities.

Fedorov further elaborated on the situation, pointing out that the Russian drones, specifically the inexpensive Molniya-2, pose a significant challenge due to their low altitude flight patterns and real-time control, making them less susceptible to electronic warfare tactics.

Concerns also arise among Russian military commentators, as Starlink’s limitations may disrupt internet access for their forces stationed at the front lines. Additionally, Fedorov announced that the Ukrainian government is planning to establish a whitelist of approved Starlink satellites and associated terminals eligible for service in Ukraine, with all unregistered devices set for disconnection in collaboration with SpaceX.

This cooperation echoes the initial requests made by Fedorov, who sought Musk's assistance as soon as the full-scale invasion began. Despite occasional tensions over access rights and statements about military use of Starlink, including past decisions about limiting services in Crimea, Musk has emphasized that the service will remain operational for Ukraine's defense efforts.

While Fedorov and Musk have credited these actions with enhancing Ukraine’s defense capabilities, challenges persist as both sides navigate this complex technological battlefield.