Musk reportedly slows Starlink in Ukraine, straining US ties

Elon Musk reportedly ordered the slowdown of Starlink satellite internet services in Ukraine, according to the Wall Street Journal, citing two sources. The move has sparked panic and criticism from Kyiv, though it remains unclear if US President Donald Trump was informed beforehand. Starlink is crucial for Ukrainian military communications and reconnaissance since Russia's invasion in February 2022. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky harshly criticized Trump over the slowdown, saying the US must remain neutral, while Trump stated he did not know who was responsible. The two sources disagreed on whether Musk consulted Trump before or after the decision. The incident has further strained relations between Washington and Kyiv, with Ukraine previously accusing the US of deliberately reducing Starlink speeds.