US Starlink Restrictions Disrupt Ukraine's Drone Operations

Ukraine's military drones experienced sudden communication failures on October 13 due to restrictions on the US-provided Starlink-related service, disrupting some operations and raising suspicions about US involvement amid deteriorating bilateral relations. Ukrainian forces reported significant internet speed drops and poor command communications when drones exceeded 160 km/h, leading to operational setbacks. Kyiv suspects the US imposed limits after Ukraine protested American-Russian transit deals, with SpaceX's Elon Musk noting US government control over the system. President Trump denied ordering any restrictions, while Reuters reported possible White House directives. President Zelenskyy said communications remain unrecovered, highlighting Ukraine's deepening concerns over its reliance on US-controlled military infrastructure.