In Ukraine, civilian casualties were already rising. Restrictions on Starlink will only worsen the death toll
Throttling of mobile internet system will affect Kyiv’s air defences more than its strikes on oil refineries. Now Zelenskyy must be hoping that US intel holds
TL;DR
- Russia has intensified attacks, bombing power plants and infrastructure in Kyiv, leading to rising civilian casualties.
- Elon Musk's Starlink mobile internet system has been restricted for Ukrainian drones flying faster than 100mph, impacting mid-range operations and air defense.
- Kyiv suspects the White House is pressuring Ukraine into a deal with Russia through these restrictions and a potential pause in US intelligence sharing.
- While Starlink restrictions may not significantly affect long-range strikes on Russian oil refineries, they could severely hamper air defense against new jet-powered drones.
- Human rights activists warn that the lack of protection will make Ukrainian civilians more vulnerable to Russian drone attacks.
- Ukrainian officials and allies are seeking assurances that intelligence sharing will not be paused and are urging diplomatic pressure on the US.