Ukraine's Satellite Internet Speeds Back to Normal

Ukraine's satellite internet speeds are back to normal after a week of significant slowdowns. President Volodymyr Zelenskyy confirmed on Saturday that the restoration began overnight. This update applies to both the commercial Starlink network and the military's Starshield system. The country had been operating at reduced speeds for several days.

The Defense Ministry verified the return to full capacity. Monitoring systems showed stable connectivity above 250 mph. During the disruption, speeds were capped at roughly 100 mph. The ministry stated that this reduction hampered drone interception efforts and disrupted various military missions. The restoration removes a major technical hurdle for front-line units.

Starlink is a critical tool for Ukraine's defense against Russia. The network supports drone operations and logistics. It also handles communications along the front line. Zelenskyy noted that the service helps protect against Iranian-made Shahed drones. Defense Minister Yevhen Khmara credited the fix to direct dialogue by the president. He emphasized that the result is vital for service members and logistics.

Zelenskyy thanked U.S. officials for their role in the resolution. He named members of Congress, the State Department, and President Trump in his post. The cause of the slowdown had created tension between Washington and Kyiv. Ukrainian officials believed the U.S. government was behind the restrictions. They said SpaceX acted on a message from the American government.

The ownership of the system remains a point of discussion. Elon Musk wrote on Oct. 14 that Starshield is owned and controlled by the U.S. government. He stated that the U.S. military and the president decide on speed limits. The Trump administration has denied interfering with access. Trump told reporters on Friday that he would not say who ordered the limits. He also defended Musk, calling him a fair person who never does anything wrong.

The technical fix arrives as peace talks gain momentum. A U.S.-led push is underway for a diplomatic resolution. Russia has agreed to a trilateral meeting with Ukraine and the United States next month. The two sides also agreed to a localized ceasefire in Oleshky. The White House said First Lady Melania Trump brokered this deal. It includes humanitarian aid and civilian evacuation options amid a food crisis.

Combat continues in other areas despite the diplomatic progress. Ukraine attacked a chemical plant in the Russian city of Tolyatti on Saturday. A Russian drone also struck a residential building in Kyiv's Obolon District. The impact started a fire in the structure. The conflict remains active even as key communications infrastructure stabilizes.