Andy Burnham tells Donald Trump in transatlantic phone call that Ukraine must have full Starlink access – after Elon Musk ‘ordered slowdown’
Andy Burnham urged Donald Trump to ensure Ukraine has full access to Starlink, after reported speed limits on the satellite service reduced Ukraine’s ability to detect Russian missile and drone attacks. The call highlights the service’s importance to Ukraine’s defence amid tensions over who authorised the limits and wider disagreement between Washington and Kyiv over the war.
Downing Street said the leaders discussed Starlink and agreed to work with international partners to end the fighting. Elon Musk said service limits are decided by the US military and ultimately Trump, while Trump said he did not know who was responsible. Ukraine said the speed restrictions left it with little or no warning of attacks; the article also describes UK efforts to bring parties together after recent shifts in US policy towards Russia.
In short
- Burnham urged Trump to secure Ukraine’s full Starlink access.
- Reported speed limits weakened Ukraine’s warning of attacks.
- Responsibility for the restrictions remains disputed.
Steelman: both sides, in good faith
The strongest fair case each way — we don't pick a winner.
The case for
Ukraine’s defenders rely on Starlink for communications and early warning, so limits that reduce its usefulness could leave civilians and military personnel more exposed to Russian attacks. On this view, the US should ensure reliable access, and international diplomacy should reinforce Ukraine’s ability to defend itself while seeking an end to the fighting.
The case against
Starlink is a privately operated service, and decisions about its use in an active war may involve security, operational and diplomatic considerations that are not fully public. On this view, access need not be unconditional: the US and service operators may reasonably weigh how the system is used and whether particular arrangements could affect escalation risks or broader efforts to end the war.
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