Ukraine satellite speeds return to 250 mph

Ukraine announced on Saturday that the Starlink satellite network and the Starshield military system have returned to their standard operating speeds. The restoration followed a period of more than one week during which bandwidth was artificially limited. President Volodymyr Zelenskyy stated on social media that the return to full capacity began during the night.

The Defense Ministry confirmed the recovery through internal monitoring systems. Officials reported that connectivity is now stable at speeds exceeding 250 mph. During the disruption, speeds were capped at approximately 100 mph. The ministry noted that this reduction hindered the ability to intercept drones and disrupted ongoing military missions.

The satellite infrastructure serves as a primary channel for Ukraine’s defense against the Russian invasion. Units depend on the system for drone control, logistical supply chains, and frontline communications. Zelenskyy added that the service supports efforts to counter Iranian-made Shahed drones. He credited the fix to direct diplomatic talks, thanking U.S. officials including members of Congress and President Donald Trump.

Defense Minister Yevhen Khmara described the outcome as vital for service members and drone operations. He attributed the resolution to direct dialogue led by Zelenskyy. The speed limits had previously created friction between Kyiv and Washington. Ukrainian officials suspected the U.S. government ordered the changes, claiming SpaceX acted on a directive from American authorities.

SpaceX CEO Elon Musk stated on October 14 that the U.S. government owns and controls Starshield. He wrote that speed limits are determined by the U.S. military and the President. The Trump administration has denied interfering with Ukraine’s access to the system. President Trump told reporters on Friday that he would not reveal who ordered the restrictions. He also defended Musk, calling him a fair person.

The technical fix arrives as diplomatic efforts intensify. A trilateral meeting between Russia, Ukraine, and the United States is scheduled for next month. The parties also agreed to a localized ceasefire in the occupied city of Oleshky. The White House stated that First Lady Melania Trump brokered the deal to facilitate humanitarian aid and civilian evacuation. Fighting continued on Saturday with a Ukrainian attack on a chemical plant in Tolyatti and a Russian drone strike in Kyiv.