Ukrainian Defence Minister Rustem Umerov has confirmed that Kyiv is actively seeking alternative satellite communication solutions in case access to Starlink—a system vital for frontline operations—is restricted.
Speaking at a press conference in Kyiv on Sunday, Umerov stated, “We are already working on this. There are alternatives. There is a solution.”
Reports suggest that Washington has threatened to disrupt Ukraine’s access to Starlink unless Kyiv signs a deal granting the US rights to Ukrainian critical minerals—a claim that has intensified tensions between the two allies.
Kyiv has rejected the proposed agreement, arguing that it fails to safeguard Ukrainian interests and lacks necessary security guarantees.
Elon Musk, who owns Starlink and has close ties to Donald Trump, dismissed the reports, calling them false on social media.
While Starlink has played a crucial role in Ukraine’s battlefield communications, Musk has previously expressed reluctance to involve SpaceX in direct military conflicts, particularly those that could escalate tensions with Russia.
Despite the uncertainty, Ukrainian officials remain confident in securing alternative solutions, ensuring that military operations are not hindered by potential access restrictions.
