Starlink speed caps in Ukraine spark conflicting US explanations

Ukraine reports that speed limits on its military Starlink network remain in place, hampering efforts against Russian drones, days after a slowdown Kyiv called deliberate and Washington denied ordering. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said the cap of about 160km/h appears intentional rather than technical. Conflicting explanations have emerged from US officials. Elon Musk said the US government controls the system, while President Donald Trump denied involvement, and Secretary of State Marco Rubio called claims of White House-ordered restrictions "categorically false," noting Ukraine lacks access to the military Starshield version. Poland's foreign minister accused Musk of "playing politics." The dispute comes amid souring Kyiv-Washington relations, with analysts suggesting the administration may avoid openly acknowledging any cut due to political risks ahead of November elections. This is not the first time Starlink decisions have affected the battlefield in Ukraine.