In brief
President Donald Trump has dismissed accusations that the White House restricted Ukraine's access to the Starlink satellite internet service, a move that left Kyiv vulnerable to Russian drone and missile attacks. The restriction, reportedly imposed in February, cut speeds to under 100 mph, limiting the effectiveness of Ukrainian air‑defence equipment. Ukraine's president Volodymyr Zelensky has demanded a restoration of full Starlink capacity while senators across parties call for an investigation into the sudden slowdown. Meanwhile, European leaders, including France's Emmanuel Macron, have pledged continued support as the war enters a fifth winter.
President Donald Trump has dismissed accusations that the White House restricted Ukraine's access to the Starlink satellite internet service, a move that left Kyiv vulnerable to Russian drone and missile attacks.
The restriction, reportedly imposed in February, cut speeds to under 100 mph, limiting the effectiveness of Ukrainian air‑defence equipment and allowing Russian forces to hit critical infrastructure.
Ukraine's president Volodymyr Zelensky blamed the slowdown for the deadly strikes that followed, demanding a swift restoration of full Starlink capacity. Senators from both parties have called for an investigation into the sudden change, arguing it degraded Ukraine’s ability to conduct defensive operations.
Trump stated he had no role in the decision and that the new order had allegedly come from the Pentagon rather than the White House. He also noted a good working relationship with Zelensky, contrasting it with his tougher stance toward President Vladimir Putin.
European leaders, including France's Emmanuel Macron, have pledged continued support for Ukraine as the conflict enters its fifth winter, highlighting the importance of satellite and early‑warning systems for defense.
