Zelensky says satellite restrictions persist in Ukraine

Summary

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said Ukraine’s use of SpaceX’s satellite system remains partly restricted, limiting military drone operations and the delivery of supplies to frontline troops. This follows earlier coverage of a Starshield restriction and questions about its effect on Ukraine. President Donald Trump denied Friday that his administration disrupted the system, while Ukrainian officials said they were still trying to determine whether the restrictions came from the White House or SpaceX. Fast Company reported that some Ukrainian units said connectivity had returned to normal by Thursday after restrictions disrupted missions and affected drones.

Timeline

1. Fast Company

   16 Oct 2026, 17:30 UTCSource ↗

   Fast Company reports that Starshield restrictions disrupted Ukrainian missions and led to lost drones, while some units said connectivity had returned to normal by Thursday and the cause remained unclear.

2. Axios

   16 Oct 2026, 18:52 UTCSource ↗

   Axios reports that Trump denied his administration disrupted the satellite system, while a Ukrainian official said contacts with SpaceX indicated the White House was involved.

3. Axios

   17 Oct 2026, 14:40 UTCSource ↗

   Axios reports that Zelensky said Ukraine’s satellite service remained partly restricted, limiting drone interceptions and supply deliveries, while Ukrainian officials were still trying to establish whether the restrictions came from the Trump administration or Musk.