“This Is A Planned Operation”: Zelenskyy States Starlink Restrictions Are In Place In Ukraine

19.10.2026, 12:18 uatv.ua

Restrictions on Starlink satellite communications are in effect in Ukraine, preventing Defense Forces from using certain interceptor drones to destroy fast, jet-powered Russian Shaheds. At the same time, verification by the Ukrainian side showed that no such restrictions exist in European Union countries. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy stated this today, October 17, while speaking with journalists, UATV English relays.

According to the head of state, Starlink plays an important role in ensuring communications at the front and for the civilian population. The technology is also used to control drones delivering food and water to Ukrainian troops at positions that cannot be reached by ground transport due to Russian drone activity.

However, the current restrictions have affected both the Defense Forces’ logistics capabilities and the operation of some interceptor drones.

“What does the Starlink speed limit currently look like? Well, roughly like this: the maximum speed right now is 161 km/h. After that — based on what I’ve seen and heard in reports — after that it cuts off completely, Starlink shuts off, and we lose the drone. In other words, the speed isn’t enough, and well, we lose the drone,” Zelenskyy explained.

The president noted that, due to these restrictions, Ukrainian interceptor drones using Starlink cannot effectively counter jet-powered Shaheds. At the same time, Defense Forces continue using aviation, missiles, and other air defense assets to destroy such targets.

To determine the reasons for the restrictions, the Ukrainian side carried out checks in EU countries. According to Zelenskyy, vehicles with Starlink equipment there traveled at speeds exceeding 180 km/h, and the connection continued working.

“The conclusion is as follows: the restrictions are in effect, the restrictions apply on the territory of Ukraine, and the restrictions do not apply on the territory of European Union countries. In other words, this is a planned operation,” the president stated.

Zelenskyy also said Ukraine is trying to resolve the situation at the level of the military, the Ministry of Defense, and diplomats. According to him, SpaceX representatives are currently not responding to the Ukrainian side’s inquiries, while at other levels the restrictions are being explained as technical issues.

The president emphasized that Ukraine is interested in restoring Starlink’s full functionality, since the ability to protect troops and civilians depends on it.

It was previously reported that Volodymyr Zelenskyy stated that Starlink’s operating speed in Ukraine has not yet returned to the level it was at before the restrictions were introduced, although it is currently gradually increasing.

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