Zelenskyy Urges Musk to Restore Starlink as Russia Strikes Kyiv

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has called on SpaceX founder Elon Musk to reinstate complete Starlink connectivity as Russia launched fresh missile strikes against Kyiv on Tuesday. The appeal underscores growing tensions over internet infrastructure amid the ongoing conflict.

Kyiv officials have alleged that Starlink services have been deliberately throttled or disrupted, hampering communications during critical moments. The satellite internet service has become a vital lifeline for Ukrainian forces and civilians in areas where conventional infrastructure has been destroyed by Russian bombardment.

Starlink, operated by Musk's aerospace company SpaceX, has played a significant role in maintaining communications networks across Ukraine since the invasion began in February 2022. Zelenskyy's latest request highlights Ukraine's dependence on the service for both military coordination and civilian connectivity.

The appeal comes amid intensified Russian missile and drone attacks targeting Ukrainian cities, including the capital. Officials in Kyiv have not provided specific details about the nature or extent of the alleged Starlink disruptions, but have emphasized the critical importance of uninterrupted satellite connectivity for national defense and civilian operations.

SpaceX has not immediately responded to requests for comment regarding the restoration of full service capacity in Ukraine.