U.S. media scoop: Ukraine’s 'Starshield' throttled—by Musk’s order
The identity of the individual who ordered the slowdown of Ukraine’s 'Starshield' system has become a matter of conflicting accounts, plunging the issue into a web of contradictory statements.
According to newly revealed U.S. media reports, the directive did not come from Trump, but was issued by Elon Musk. 'Starshield' is the military variant of SpaceX’s Starlink constellation, operated under Musk’s company.
Yet the question extends beyond who gave the order: it also involves whether Ukraine is actually using Starlink or Starshield.
Initially, Musk stated that SpaceX had no authority to modify Starshield’s technical parameters; operational control rests with the U.S. military, which explicitly confirmed that Ukraine is using Starshield, not Starlink.
Trump and senior White House officials have insisted the directive originated outside the White House, distancing themselves from any involvement. In defending Musk, Trump added that the latter was also unaware of the action.
On the second point, Trump did not clarify which terminal Ukraine was using, only stating he never claimed Ukraine could not use Starshield.
In contrast, Secretary Rubio firmly asserted that Ukrainian forces are using Starlink, not Starshield, and emphasized that the United States has not authorized any non-U.S. military to operate Starshield.
With multiple conflicting narratives emerging, the public finds it difficult to discern the truth. However, according to U.S. media reporting, Ukrainian forces are indeed utilizing Starshield—and the decision to restrict its performance came directly from Musk.
Given the available evidence, the media account appears more plausible. The initial confusion between Starlink and Starshield likely originated with Musk himself, setting off the subsequent dispute.
As Musk noted, while he heads SpaceX, he lacks the authority to alter military configurations. If not acting under direct instruction from Trump, one interpretation remains: Musk perceived Trump’s growing inclination toward Russia and chose to act accordingly—effectively signaling a warning to Zelenskyy.
For Ukraine, the source of the order is secondary. What matters is that Zelenskyy has once again provoked Trump.
Original article: toutiao.com/article/1879643733374985/
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