Ukraine's Starlink restrictions expose reliance on US tech in war with Russia

Ukraine has reported restrictions on its use of the US satellite internet system Starlink, exposing Kyiv's heavy reliance on the technology for both offensive and defensive operations in its war against Russia's invasion, analysts say. A senior Ukrainian official told AFP on Wednesday that Starlink data communication speeds had been "throttled." The restrictions come amid renewed tension between Kyiv and Washington, with US President Donald Trump seeking to lower global fuel prices by buying Russian diesel and pressuring both sides to halt attacks on energy infrastructure. The development highlights Ukraine's vulnerability to external control over critical military communications infrastructure. Starlink has been a vital tool for Ukrainian forces since early in the conflict, providing secure internet connectivity in frontline areas where traditional networks are disrupted or destroyed.