Germany urges US to lift Starlink restrictions in Ukraine: 'We are paying for it'
Photo: German Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul (Vitalii Nosach, RBC-Ukraine)
German Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul has criticized restrictions on Starlink internet speeds in Ukraine, noting that his country is among those paying for the service, according to ntv.
"These restrictions must be lifted," Wadephul said.
He noted that Germany funds some of the Starlink equipment used in Ukraine.
"And that is why, of course, we insist that it work if we are paying for it. Ukraine must continue to receive full support," the German minister stressed.
Wadephul added that there was currently "no complete picture" of the reasons behind the restrictions on Starlink.
According to him, Germany has questions for the United States about the issue, "which we will clarify."
Starlink restrictions in Ukraine
In recent days, Ukraine's Defense Forces have faced restrictions on Starlink service. In particular, Ukrainian troops were unable to use drones traveling at speeds above 160 km/h.
According to media reports, the order to restrict the satellite system—which Ukraine uses for battlefield communications and drone control—came from the White House.
Germany pays for Starshield connectivity for the Ukrainian military under a contract that runs through April 2027. Kyiv is asking for the system to be restored to unrestricted operation, without speed limits.
According to RBC-Ukraine, the situation with restrictions on Starshield, the military version of Starlink, improved in Ukraine on October 15. However, restrictions remain in place.
Meanwhile, US Senator Thom Tillis has called on the US authorities to investigate the Pentagon's actions after Ukraine was affected by the Starlink restrictions.
