Ukraine Reports Starlink Speeds Return to 250 mph

Ukraine regained full satellite internet capacity on Saturday after more than a week of reduced speeds. President Volodymyr Zelenskyy announced the change on X, stating that Starlink and the military-grade Starshield system had returned to their pre-restriction levels.

The Defense Ministry verified the recovery through monitoring systems, which recorded stable connectivity above 250 mph. Previous limits had capped speeds at approximately 100 mph. The ministry reported that the lower bandwidth hindered drone interception efforts and disrupted various military missions.

Starlink serves as a primary communication tool for Ukraine’s defense against Russia. The network supports drone operations, frontline logistics, and the supply of food and water to troops. Zelenskyy noted that the service also assists in defending against Iranian-made Shahed drones deployed by Russia.

Defense Minister Yevhen Khmara attributed the return to normal speeds to direct dialogue led by the president. He emphasized the impact of the restoration on frontline service members and drone operations. Zelenskyy publicly thanked American officials, including members of Congress, the State Department, and President Donald Trump.

The cause of the slowdown created friction between Kyiv and Washington. Ukrainian officials told NBC’s Meet the Press that they believed the U.S. government ordered the restrictions, citing a message to SpaceX. On October 14, Elon Musk stated on X that Starshield is controlled by the U.S. government and that speed limits are decided by the U.S. military and the president.

The Trump administration has denied direct interference with Ukraine’s access to the satellite system. Speaking to reporters on Friday, President Trump declined to identify who ordered the restrictions. He also defended Musk, describing the SpaceX CEO as a fair person who never does anything wrong.

The speed restoration coincides with renewed efforts toward peace talks. Russia has agreed to a trilateral meeting with Ukraine and the United States next month. The two sides also agreed to a localized ceasefire in the occupied city of Oleshky, a deal brokered by First Lady Melania Trump that includes humanitarian aid and civilian evacuation. Fighting continued elsewhere on Saturday, with Ukraine striking a chemical plant in Tolyatti and a Russian drone hitting a residential building in Kyiv’s Obolon District.