Hegseth clarifies US stance on Ukraine's access to Starshield and interceptor missile supplies
The US Secretary of Defense was asked whether his statement on the continuity of American policy toward Ukraine also applies to access to Starshield.
In response, Hegseth emphasized that the US side did not cancel access to relevant capabilities or introduce restrictions. He explained that Starlink independently makes decisions within established terms of service.
According to Hegseth, media outlets disseminate "a lot of false information" about the War Department.
The Secretary also assured that Washington had not issued separate instructions on this issue.
"We haven't issued any directives or anything like that," the US Secretary of Defense emphasized.
According to Hegseth, the American side's position remains unchanged.
Separately, the head of the Pentagon commented on the United States' attitude toward Ukraine and the US military's need for interceptors.
He stressed that Washington has not revised its position on Ukraine. At the same time, according to the Secretary, the United States must ensure its own service members receive necessary equipment.
He also noted that Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyi is aware of the American position regarding providing troops with interceptors.
"And President Zelenskyi knows this," the head of the Pentagon added.
Background
According to The Wall Street Journal, billionaire Elon Musk personally ordered a slowdown in the operation of the military version of Starlink, which Ukraine relies on.
According to two sources, Musk restricted the connection speed of Ukrainian equipment to the satellite network last week, rendering the operation of certain drones and interceptor drones virtually ineffective.
Shortly after news of the Starlink slowdown emerged, Musk and Trump discussed the decision in a phone call. One source claims both discussed the issue before the decision to slow speeds.
Hours after news of the Starlink slowdown broke, Musk wrote on social media that the US military determines any restrictions. Trump told reporters that he does not know who is to blame for the Starlink restriction but would like to find out.
A source familiar with the situation says Musk spoke with several high-ranking administration officials, including Trump, before introducing the new speed restriction.
On October 20, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyi discussed the supply of interceptors for ballistic missiles, early warnings regarding Russian attacks, and Starlink/Starshield operations with US Secretary of State Marco Rubio.
As Rubryka reported, President Volodymyr Zelenskyi believes that US decisions regarding Starlink and Starshield operations, Patriot missile supplies, and sanctions against Russia signal a possible political decision to slow support for Ukraine. At the same time, Kyiv remains ready to continue working toward a just peace, while Vladimir Putin refuses to end the war.
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22 of October 2026
