White House restricts satellite communications for Ukrainian forces

The White House has ordered restrictions on the Starshield satellite communications program for Ukraine, according to US officials familiar with the matter. The directive to slow service for Ukrainian military forces was given to Pentagon leadership. A senior US official stated that President Biden never made such a request, and the White House did not clarify who issued the order. Ukraine reported that Starlink terminals malfunctioned on fast-moving objects, limiting drone guidance, though terminals now work at speeds up to 160 km/h. Elon Musk said Starshield is owned and controlled by the US government, meaning military or presidential officials determine usage limits. The restrictions reportedly complicate Ukrainian strikes against Russian forces.