Bipartisan Senators Call for Urgent Investigation into SpaceX Starlink Disruptions in Ukraine

A bipartisan group of U.S. senators has signed a letter urging an immediate investigation into disruptions to SpaceX’s Starlink internet network in Ukraine. Starlink plays a crucial role in guiding drones to Russian targets and safeguarding Ukrainian skies, but recent speed restrictions have raised alarms.

The letter, led by Democrat Jeanne Shaheen on the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, expresses “grave concerns” over reports of speed limitations between October 12 and 14. Senators are calling on the U.S. Department of Defense Inspector General to determine the cause of these restrictions and their impact on Ukraine’s defensive capabilities.

Owned by Elon Musk’s SpaceX, Starlink imposed a speed cap of 100 miles per hour on Tuesday, affecting the connectivity of weapons traveling faster. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy acknowledged the ongoing restoration of Starlink services in the country, mentioning a gradual recovery in velocity.

Reports of disruptions and glitches affecting intelligence-sharing and security operations in Ukraine have prompted deep concerns among senators. Incidents where personnel were unable to reach designated safe zones during Russian air attacks have highlighted the critical need for a swift investigation.

The letter’s signatories include Republican senators Thom Tillis, Susan Collins, Lisa Murkowski, and John Cornyn, as well as Democratic senators Richard Durbin, Jack Reed, Richard Blumenthal, and Christopher Coons.