Ukraine's Defense Ministry reports Starshield speeds have resumed at over 400 km/h, surpassing previous limits of 160 km/h. The upgrade follows a White House intervention that reportedly lifted restrictions on the military-grade Starlink system, critical for Ukraine's defense operations.
The restrictions, which began in mid-October, hindered Ukraine's ability to intercept Russian drones and coordinate military efforts. White House officials, including Trump, have been under scrutiny for potential involvement in the decision to limit Starshield speeds, though neither Musk nor the U.S. government has publicly acknowledged responsibility.
Ukraine's defense minister confirmed the system's stability, but noted that full restoration of service remains pending. The issue highlights ongoing tensions between U.S. officials and SpaceX, with concerns about the impact on military communications and logistics.
The Trump administration has faced criticism for its mixed messages on the matter, with Trump suggesting he would address the issue if problems persisted. However, no clear resolution has been reached, and the matter remains under investigation.