EU calls on SpaceX to urgently restore Starshield operations for Ukrainian forces

Brussels' reaction to satellite communication issues

The European Commission has appealed to the American aerospace company SpaceX to urgently restore the functionality of the Starshield system in Ukraine. This appeal was made against the backdrop of reports of new malfunctions that significantly limit the capabilities of the Armed Forces of Ukraine in repelling Russian attacks.

The position of the European Commission was voiced by European Commission spokesperson Thoma Renier on Thursday, 12 November.

Assessment of the situation and requirements for the supplier

The institution expressed concern regarding the stability of the technological infrastructure. As Thoma Renier noted, this is not the first instance of Starshield communication problems being recorded in Ukraine.

«Це не вперше, коли Україна стикається з перебоями в роботі Starshield. Ці повідомлення викликають глибоке занепокоєння і, якщо вони підтвердяться, є неприйнятними» ("This is not the first time Ukraine has faced disruptions in Starshield operations. These reports cause deep concern and, if confirmed, are unacceptable"), – stated the European Commission representative.

He emphasised the need for SpaceX to maintain a consistent approach to providing its services to Ukraine.

Importance of restoring communication channels

The EC spokesperson underlined the critical importance of quickly resolving the issue for the state's security.

«Послуги Starshield необхідно терміново відновити, щоб українські військові могли підтримувати зв’язок, захищати своїх громадян і обороняти свою територію» ("Starshield services must be urgently restored so that Ukrainian military personnel can maintain communication, protect their citizens, and defend their territory"), – added Thoma Renier.