Elon Musk Blames US Government for Slowing Starlink Speeds

Bangla Press Desk: Elon Musk, head of SpaceX, has attributed the reduction in the speed of the ‘Starlink’ internet service—used during military operations in Ukraine—to the U.S. government and its military. The imposition of new speed limits on the network has caused several high-speed Ukrainian weapons to lose their connection, severely disrupting military operations on the battlefield.
On Tuesday (October 13), SpaceX capped the speed of Starlink, effectively disconnecting weapons and drones that travel faster than the newly imposed limit. According to the BBC, this system was crucial for defending Ukrainian airspace and guiding drones toward military targets. Elon Musk clarified that the ‘Starshield’ service—the version of Starlink used for military purposes—is primarily controlled by the U.S. government.
Consequently, any restrictions on its speed or usage are determined by the U.S. military and the President. Although President Volodymyr Zelenskyy requested the restoration of full connectivity—assuming the issue was merely technical—Ukrainian officials suspect that this move stems from ongoing political tensions between Kyiv and Washington.
Recently, U.S. President Donald Trump expressed dissatisfaction with Ukraine’s persistent attacks on Russian energy infrastructure. Furthermore, following a recent diesel deal between the U.S. and Russia, Zelenskyy remarked that he felt he had been a victim of "betrayal."
Amidst these political tensions, Zelenskyy met with UK Prime Minister Andy Burnham and King Charles in London. During the visit, the United Kingdom affirmed its commitment to accelerate the supply of missiles capable of destroying drones, pledging to stand by Ukraine under any circumstances.
BP/TD