Poland and Italy seek Starlink alternatives

Tesla and SpaceX chief executive Elon Musk drew attention to himself with a harsh remark directed at the head of Poland's Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Radosław Sikorski. 

In response to remarks regarding the payment of $50 million for Starlink services, Musk stated: «Замолчи, мелкий человек! Вы платите лишь меньшую часть стоимости. И не существует другого Starlink в мире!» ("Shut up, little man! You are only paying a fraction of the cost. And there is no other Starlink in the world!"). This comment caused a storm in international circles and drew attention to the dispute over satellite internet funding.

Italy seeks Starlink alternatives

Meanwhile, the situation regarding cooperation with Elon Musk's company in Italy appears increasingly tense. According to sources, Italy is considering terminating agreements with Starlink worth $1.5 billion. Elon Musk is set to visit Rome to negotiate with Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, attempting to retain the contract. The reason is that Italian authorities are seeking alternatives and trying to establish ties with other satellite service providers, which puts the future partnership with Musk's company at risk.

What is behind Italy's rejection of Starlink?

Italian officials have begun looking for ways to reduce their dependence on Starlink, despite significant investments in the project. The reasons may be both political and economic, given growing doubts about the reliability and profitability of further cooperation with Musk.