Washington: Amid the Russia-Ukraine war, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has made a key military request to US President Donald Trump. According to reports, Zelenskyy wants the US to help ease some restrictions on the use of Elon Musk’s satellite internet service Starlink so that Ukraine can use its capabilities in military operations within Russia. However, Trump did not immediately give any clear assurance on this demand.
Why is Ukraine feeling the need for Starlink?
Ukraine is seeking to further strengthen its military capabilities amid continued Russian missile and drone attacks. Reports suggest that given the limited availability of its Patriot air defense system, Kyiv is now exploring alternatives to enhance the accuracy of long-range military operations. This is why the Starlink network is considered strategically important.
The issue was raised in a meeting with Trump
Zelensky reportedly raised the issue with Trump in the Oval Office of the White House during his visit to Washington. He later emphasized the need to use Starlink for potential military operations within Russia in meetings with US lawmakers.
However, Trump did not indicate any immediate policy change or approval in this regard.
What are the limitations of Starlink at the moment?
Elon Musk’s company, SpaceX, currently provides Starlink service to Ukraine within its international border and within Russian-occupied Ukrainian territories. However, there is a ban on using this network within Russia’s international border. Ukraine has reportedly been seeking a relaxation of this ban for some time.
No official statement has been issued on this matter by the White House, the Ukrainian Embassy and SpaceX.
Could the danger increase for Elon Musk?
Reports also suggest that allowing Starlink to be used within Russia could increase security risks for Elon Musk and SpaceX’s satellite network. Some previous intelligence assessments have suggested that Russia is developing anti-satellite technology. However, these claims have not been independently confirmed.
Support was also sought from American lawmakers
While meeting US lawmakers in Washington, Zelensky said that if Ukraine gets long-term and comprehensive access to Starlink, the accuracy of its long- and medium-range weapon systems could be significantly improved.
US Senator Mike Rounds also said that Ukraine aims to make its military operations more precise and Starlink can play an important role in this context.
Demand was also placed on the Patriot system
Zelensky also reiterated his demand for additional supplies of Patriot air defense systems and a license for their production in Ukraine. Trump responded that this is cutting-edge defense technology and that discussions are ongoing on all aspects of the system. He indicated that no final decision has been made.
The issue of Iran-Russia cooperation was also raised
During the meeting, Zelensky also raised the issue of growing military cooperation between Russia and Iran. He claimed that Ukraine has inputs indicating that defense cooperation between the two countries is strengthening. He also stated that Ukraine, which has extensive experience in drone warfare, is ready to cooperate technically with the US and its allies to counter Iranian drone threats.
At present, diplomatic efforts are underway regarding the Russia-Ukraine war, but all eyes are on what will be America’s final policy on issues like Starlink, Patriot system and military cooperation.