Ukraine reported that Elon Musk’s SpaceX limited Starlink services, which negatively impacted its drones and air defense efforts, coinciding with a decline in relations with the U.S. Meanwhile, Russia continued its attacks on Ukrainian cities, resulting in significant power outages and casualties. President Zelenskiy criticized the strikes, terming them a blatant disregard for former President Trump’s call for a ceasefire regarding energy targets.
Tensions escalated when Trump recently relaxed sanctions on Russian diesel, part of an effort to lower fuel prices amid rising costs due to the ongoing conflict. He urged Ukraine to stop its attacks on Russian refineries and suggested a change in Ukraine’s leadership. Trump announced over the weekend that both countries agreed to halt strikes on energy sites, but this was not confirmed, as Russia intensified its bombardments shortly after.
Russian attacks killed six people in Lutsk and continued throughout the day after significant night strikes in Kyiv. Ukrainians responded with long-distance strikes on Russian targets, focusing on a major data center, while trying not to strike energy infrastructure to honor Trump’s request.
Ukrainian officials accused SpaceX of discontinuing military-grade Starlink services unexpectedly, specifically when military drones move quickly. Starlink systems are crucial for many drones deployed by Ukraine, and the sudden cutoff affected military operations. Ukrainian military advisor Serhiy Beskrestnov mentioned that no prior warning was given about the limitations, which disrupted several missions. The set speed limit of 160 km per hour further complicated Ukraine’s defensive measures against the Russian assaults.
Poland’s Foreign Minister criticized Musk on social media, questioning whether he was playing politics with his products. Ukraine is in discussions with SpaceX and the U.S. government concerning these new service limitations. The perception that SpaceX may be curtailing Ukrainian military capabilities has raised alarms about U.S. support drying up, particularly amidst threats of cutting off intelligence regarding missile strikes to pressure Ukraine.
Amid the chaos in Kyiv, rescue efforts were underway after missile strikes on residential buildings, with reports of casualties and extensive property damage. About 600,000 residents lost power due to attacks on several power stations. Russia confirmed its targeting of these facilities, while Zelenskiy highlighted the deliberate nature of the strikes as a snub to the U.S. government’s ceasefire announcements. Ukraine, having downed only four out of 39 Russian missiles, faces significant challenges with its air defense system amid ongoing assaults and dwindling weapon supplies.
With information from Reuters
