Europe seeks Starlink alternative for Ukraine's satellite communications

Europe is seeking alternatives to Starlink to provide Ukraine with independent satellite communications, as the US has reportedly limited access to the service. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky confirmed that Starlink and Starshield systems are still operating with restrictions, though US intelligence sharing has resumed. The restrictions follow US demands for Kyiv to halt strikes on Russian oil refineries. Experts say no equal alternative to Starlink exists, though European systems like OneWeb and Govsatcom offer partial solutions. The EU is accelerating work on IRIS2, its planned satellite network, expected to be fully operational by 2029. Ukraine lacks the space infrastructure—satellites, launch vehicles, and ground stations—needed for an independent system, which only a few wealthy countries can afford. European lawmakers have urged the EU to expedite Kyiv's access to existing secure satellite capabilities during the transition period.