Ukraine Restores Full Starlink Access Amid New Peace Talks

Ukraine has regained complete access to the Starlink satellite internet service for its drones and other rapid-response equipment. Defense Minister Yevhenii Khmara announced the end of speed restrictions on Saturday, which had reportedly disrupted front-line operations for over a week.

The Defense Ministry’s monitoring systems confirmed stable connectivity for objects traveling faster than 250 mph, according to Khmara. This restored access follows limitations placed on Starshield, SpaceX’s military-grade satellite internet service. The service is crucial to Ukraine’s drone operations and communications network. Last week’s restrictions alarmed Ukrainian military and government officials, leading to reports of lost drones and interrupted missions.

The resolution comes as U.S. envoys push to end the ongoing war, with Russia agreeing to resume negotiations with Washington and Kyiv next month. A localized ceasefire was brokered by first lady Melania Trump in the southern Kherson region on Friday.

This incident heightened tensions between Kyiv and Washington. Relations were already strained due to President Donald Trump’s reported agreement with Moscow on Russian diesel imports, which Ukraine considered a betrayal.

Khmara credited direct dialogue and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy’s diplomacy with U.S. authorities for the positive outcome. He emphasized the importance for military operations, including drones, logistics, and communications.

Despite the apparent resolution, Zelenskyy stated that speed restrictions persisted as of Friday. Questions remain about who ordered the disruptions to the Elon Musk-owned satellite internet system that Ukraine has depended on for years. While President Trump denied involvement, CBS News reported on Tuesday that SpaceX’s CEO, Elon Musk, was responsible for the interruption.