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Starlink seems to be working normally again in Ukraine

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SpaceX has apparently lifted operational restrictions on Starshield, the military-grade variant of its satellite internet service used by the Ukrainian armed forces.

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SpaceX has apparently lifted operational restrictions on Starshield, the military-grade variant of its satellite internet service used by the Ukrainian armed forces. Defense Minister Evgeniy Khmara stated that the system appears to be functioning normally again, according to a report by The Wall Street Journal. The service restoration follows a ten-day disruption where Ukrainian drones lost internet connectivity at speeds around 100 miles per hour.

This disconnection caused the military to lose control of several drones, while others had to fly slower, making them more vulnerable to attack. Khmara noted that the military is still conducting tests and has not received an explanation from SpaceX for the restrictions. The change follows a reported phone call on Wednesday between President Donald Trump and SpaceX CEO Elon Musk, in which Trump asked Musk to restore the service.

Musk previously stated on social media that Ukraine had violated terms of service by using the system for offensive drone strikes, warning that the front line would collapse if Starlink were disabled.

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TechCrunch

Original author: Anthony Ha

Original publication: 25 October 2026 02:16

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