In recent negotiations, U.S. officials have indicated that Ukraine's access to the Starlink satellite internet service, owned by SpaceX, could be jeopardized if progress is not made on a critical minerals agreement. This warning comes as Ukraine continues to rely heavily on Starlink for communication and military operations amidst the ongoing conflict with Russia.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy has been in discussions with U.S. representatives about securing a deal that would grant access to Ukraine's abundant mineral resources, including lithium and uranium. These minerals are essential for both military and technological advancements. However, Zelenskiy recently rejected an initial proposal from U.S. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent, which has led to heightened tensions regarding support from Washington.
Sources familiar with the negotiations have emphasized the significance of Starlink, describing it as Ukraine's "North Star." Losing access to this vital service would severely impact Ukraine's operational capabilities, especially in drone warfare, which is pivotal to its military strategy. As both sides work toward a resolution, the stakes remain high for Ukraine's connectivity and strategic autonomy in the face of ongoing aggression.