Ukraine and SpaceX to enforce Starlink terminal 'white list'

Ukraine has launched a stringent verification process for Starlink satellite internet terminals used inside the country, Defense Minister Mykhailo Fedorov announced Monday. The move, implemented jointly with Elon Musk's SpaceX, establishes an official "white list" system where only authorized and registered terminals will remain operational.

A Response to Russian Use

The drastic measure is a direct reaction to intelligence indicating Russian forces have been utilizing Starlink connectivity for military operations. "Everything else will be disconnected," Fedorov stated on Telegram, explaining the policy aims to curb "the use of Starlink by the Russians." The initiative follows urgent contact between Kyiv and SpaceX leadership late last month after reports surfaced of Russian drones employing Starlink over Ukrainian cities.

Collaboration with SpaceX

Fedorov acknowledged a swift cooperative response from SpaceX executives, including President Gwynne Shotwell and Elon Musk, to address the security breach. The collaboration underscores the critical, yet complex, role the private US-based company plays in the conflict's technological arena. While Starlink terminals are officially banned in Russia due to US sanctions, their alleged illicit use on the front lines has raised significant tactical concerns.

Security Implications and Warnings

Analysts from the US-based Institute for the Study of War have warned that Russian adoption of Starlink for drone operations extends strike ranges, exploiting gaps in Ukrainian air defenses. This new Ukrainian regulatory step, compelling all terminal owners to undergo government verification, represents a significant effort to regain control over a vital communications network and mitigate a growing asymmetric threat as the war continues.