Zelensky asked Trump for permission to use Starlink for strikes on Russia - The Atlantic (Updated)
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, during closed-door talks at the White House on July 28, asked US President Donald Trump to help obtain permission to use the Starlink satellite system for guiding Ukrainian drones at targets in Russia.
This was reported by The Atlantic, citing two American officials familiar with the negotiations. Another source for the publication confirmed that Zelensky raised this issue. Officially, neither the Ukrainian nor the American side commented on this part of the conversation.
According to the publication, Ukraine wants to use Starlink to strike mobile launchers of ballistic missiles, with which Russian forces attack Ukrainian cities. Such systems can move within Russia, so the most precise drone guidance is needed to destroy them.
Currently, SpaceX restricts the use of Starlink in Russian territory. Ukrainian military can use the system on Ukrainian territory, including in occupied Crimea and other regions captured by Russia.
Trump promised to talk to Musk
Donald Trump did not give Zelensky a definitive answer but promised to discuss the proposal with SpaceX owner Elon Musk. The US president did not set deadlines for such a conversation or decision.
According to the sources from The Atlantic, Trump's stance will depend on whether he considers using Starlink to be a way to increase pressure on Russia and push negotiations closer, or sees this step as a risk of further escalating the war.
Zelensky also tried to meet with Musk during his visit to the US to personally discuss the possibility of using Starlink for drone guidance. However, the businessman refused the meeting, the publication states. Representatives for Musk and SpaceX did not respond to journalists' requests.
Ukraine seeks alternative to Patriot missiles
The Starlink proposal is seen as one way to counter Russian ballistic missiles without using scarce Patriot interceptor missiles. Ukraine has repeatedly stated the need for additional missiles to protect cities and energy infrastructure.
Without access to Starlink in Russia, Ukrainian long-range drones use other navigation methods, including onboard computers and AI-based systems. They are suitable for strikes against large, stationary targets such as oil refineries or depots, but less effective against small mobile launch systems.
At the time of publication, no decision on expanding the area of Starlink use has been made.
Based on materials from: The Atlantic
