Putin praises Musk as genius while Russia builds rival satellite network

Russian President Vladimir Putin praised Elon Musk as a genius and confirmed Russia is in contact with him while developing a rival satellite internet network, a week after Ukraine's Starlink access was cut. Russia has launched over 30 low-orbit satellites as an initial step toward building its independent satellite constellation, according to digital development minister Maksut Shadayev. Putin stressed the need for orbital discipline to avoid interfering with American satellite systems. Ukraine reported temporary speed restrictions on Starlink terminals disrupted drone operations and battlefield communications, though services are now fully functional. Musk accused the Ukrainian military of violating SpaceX terms of service.