Reuters says White House directed Starshield slowdown for Ukraine

Pentagon leaders received a White House instruction to slow Starshield satellite service for Ukraine’s military, Reuters reported, citing two US officials and a Western official.

The sources did not identify the White House official who made the decision or who implemented it. Ukrainian forces use Starshield for communications and drone operations.

SpaceX developed the system for US government and defense customers. Unlike the commercial Starlink service, its operating terms are determined by US authorities. Elon Musk had also said that the US government and military set Starshield restrictions.

Republican Representative Brian Fitzpatrick threatened to seek a halt to federal agency funding if reports that US authorities restricted Ukraine’s satellite communications were confirmed.

On October fifteen, a Ukrainian official told Axios that Starlink and Starshield services had been restored to full capacity.