Ukraine restores Starlink connectivity after two weeks of restrictions

Kyiv, Oct 24 : Ukraine's Defence Ministry on Saturday announced that the speed and connectivity of satellite networks used by its military had been fully restored, ending two weeks of restrictions that had disrupted drone operations.

The ministry said its monitoring systems had confirmed a return to normal performance on SpaceX's Starlink and the US government-controlled Starshield networks, with speeds exceeding 400 km/h and stable connectivity.

The restrictions had affected Ukraine's ability to deploy interceptor drones against Russian attacks and use its own drones to deliver supplies to troops stationed along the front lines. They had also posed challenges to intelligence-gathering missions and long-range strikes against Russian targets.

The disruption triggered tensions between Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, US President Donald Trump and SpaceX Chief Executive Elon Musk. Zelensky viewed the restrictions as retaliation for his refusal to halt Ukrainian strikes on Russian oil refineries, although Trump denied that the White House had ordered the slowdown.

The controversy also drew criticism from both Republicans and Democrats in the United States and led to a public exchange over responsibility for the restrictions.

Ukraine heavily relies on Starlink for battlefield communications, logistics, reconnaissance and defensive drone operations, while Starshield, controlled by the US government, is used for certain offensive military operations.

Trump had repeatedly claimed that connectivity had been restored, even as Ukrainian officials continued to report disruptions. On Friday, he denied reports that he had discussed the issue with Musk but said he would contact the billionaire if the restrictions continued.

The Ukrainian Defence Ministry attributed the restoration to "direct dialogue" and a "firm stance at the highest level" by President Zelensky.