Trump denies limiting Ukraine access to Starlink network

Donald Trump has denied ordering restrictions on Ukraine’s access to Starshield, a military-grade satellite internet service, after a speed limit disrupted Ukrainian drone operations. The slowdown came amid tensions over Kyiv’s attacks on Russian oil refineries and raised concerns about Ukraine’s ability to defend itself from Russian strikes.

Starshield relies on SpaceX’s Starlink network and was designed for the Pentagon; Trump said he was unsure it had been restricted, while Elon Musk suggested the US government may have been responsible. The limit of 100mph (160km/h) cut connectivity for faster weapons, and Ukrainian officials said deadly attacks also struck communications and energy facilities, leaving about 600,000 people without power. US senators have called for an investigation, as European leaders discuss aid: President Volodymyr Zelensky said the war would cost €155bn next year, with at least €70bn needed from the EU for defence and weapons.