US senators demand Musk preserve Starlink records after Ukraine disruptions

Democratic US senators have ordered Elon Musk to preserve all records related to SpaceX's restrictions on Ukraine's use of Starlink and Starshield satellite services, following fresh disruptions on the frontlines. Senators Jeanne Shaheen and Chris Coons demanded written confirmation by November 30 that preservation measures are in place, citing October and November restrictions that raised concerns about vulnerabilities in systems the US government relies on. They requested records since September 1, including communications with the White House and Pentagon. Ukrainian forces report Starshield is vital for frontline communications and drone operations, with President Volodymyr Zelenskyy confirming new disruptions on Thursday. Reuters reported the October restriction order came from the White House, though Secretary of State Marco Rubio disputed this, saying decisions were up to SpaceX.