Musk blames Trump for Starshield slowdown in Ukraine, urges Zelensky to step down

Elon Musk blamed President Donald Trump for any slowdown of his Starshield satellite service in Ukraine, while reiterating his call for President Volodymyr Zelensky to step down, saying "it is time for Zelensky to leave." Ukraine reported restrictions on Starshield usage hindering its air defense and drone operations. Musk stated the systems are owned and controlled by the U.S. government, with any limitations decided by the American military and ultimately the president. Zelensky requested restoration of service, calling the disruption a "big mistake" as "people will die." The episode comes as the Trump administration pressures Ukraine to stop striking Russian oil facilities, with Washington announcing a diesel agreement with Moscow. Democratic lawmakers condemned the restrictions, with Senator Jeanne Shaheen demanding they cease immediately, saying "lives are at stake."