Ukraine's Starshield dependence exposed after US restricts military satellite access

Ukraine's military Starshield system was restricted for at least two days, hindering its air defense and leading to more civilian casualties from Russian drone attacks. The restrictions have since been lifted, but the incident highlights Ukraine's dangerous dependence on US-controlled technology. SpaceX owner Elon Musk denied responsibility, stating that Starshield is owned and controlled by the US government, with restrictions set by the US military and ultimately President Donald Trump. The White House has not confirmed or denied Musk's claim, while the Trump administration continues to pressure Ukraine, including demands for President Volodymyr Zelenskyy to step down. The speed limits imposed on Starshield prevented Ukrainian interceptor drones from tracking Russian Shahed drones flying at up to 320 km/h. The incident may serve as a warning to Kyiv about what could happen if the US fully ends its support.