Kiev accuses SpaceX of allowing Russian forces to use Starlink satellite network in occupied territories

The satellite internet service, operated by a company founded by Elon Musk, plays a vital role in the defense of Ukraine by allowing communications to be maintained against Russian aggression.

Elon Musk’s company was known to help Kiev, but it could also be used by Moscow’s troops. Ukraine accused SpaceX on Sunday February 11 of allowing Russian forces to use its Starlink satellite internet network service in Ukrainian-occupied territories.

On Facebook, the Ukrainian Ministry of Defense writes that it “Confirms use of Starlink satellite communications system by Russian occupiers at front”.. The text is accompanied by a recording presented as a radio conversation between members of the Russian military, which, according to Kiev, ” indicates that Starlink terminals were installed, for example, in units of the 83rd Air Assault Brigade. Russian Army to Establish Internet Access”.

“Yes, there were cases of use of these tools by the Russian occupiers”, insists a representative of Ukrainian military intelligence quoted in the publication. He believes that this use “Becoming Organized”.

SpaceX partially denies the allegations

SpaceX on Thursday responded to allegations of collusion with Moscow, on. The company ensures its service “Not active in Russia”Not to mention the Ukrainian territories occupied by Moscow. “SpaceX has no business relationship with the Russian government or its military”message persistence, which ensures that in the event of use by an unauthorized actor, “We will investigate the claim and if confirmed will take steps to deactivate the device”.

Since the beginning of the conflict, Starlink has made it possible for Kiev’s forces in Ukraine to maintain the internet coverage they need to organize their defenses. Elon Musk assures that with one exception “low percentage”All costs of deployment and maintenance of Starlink terminals in Ukraine were covered by SpaceX.

But the billionaire threatened to suspend the loan in October 2022 before changing his mind. the owner of “Increasing Conflict”.