US lawmakers urge Trump to expand Starlink for Ukraine to strike Russian launchers

A bipartisan group of 23 US House members has urged President Donald Trump to ask Elon Musk to grant Ukraine Starlink access for detecting Russian missile launchers on Russian territory. The lawmakers argue this could save lives and pressure Putin into negotiations. The letter, reported by The Hill, includes 16 Democrats and seven Republicans, signaling growing GOP support for Ukraine amid Trump's shift toward Russia. Lawmakers stated that if Ukraine cannot intercept Russian missiles, it must be able to strike the launchers, with Starlink aiding this capability. Starlink has been vital for Ukraine's military communications and drone operations since 2022. The request follows reports that Trump previously refused President Zelensky's similar appeal, though Musk has indicated willingness to expand coverage beyond Ukraine's borders.