Speed Restrictions on Starlink Lifted for Ukraine's Military

Ukraine's military has been granted full access to Starlink satellite links for its drones and other fast-moving equipment after speed restrictions were lifted, according to Defense Minister Yevhenii Khmara.

The limitations on Starshield, SpaceX's military-grade version of the Starlink service, had caused significant disruptions to Ukraine's drone operations and communication systems, with commanders reporting lost drones and disrupted missions. Ukrainian officials claimed that the slowdown had been in place for over a week, hindering front-line operations.

In related news, diplomatic efforts to end the war are gaining momentum. U.S. envoys have launched a new push to bring an end to the conflict, while Russia has agreed to resume three-way negotiations with Washington and Kyiv next month. Additionally, a localized ceasefire has been brokered by first lady Melania Trump around Oleshky, a Russian-occupied town in Ukraine's southern Kherson region.

Ukraine's Defense Ministry reported stable connections for objects traveling at speeds of over 400 kph (250 mph) following the lifting of speed restrictions on Starlink.

The lifting of speed restrictions on Starlink has brought some relief to Ukraine's military operations, but tensions between Kyiv and Washington remain high. The strained relationship between the two countries is attributed in part to a reported deal between President Donald Trump and Moscow regarding Russian diesel imports.

Ukraine views this agreement as a betrayal, and Ukrainian officials have been working to resolve the issue through diplomacy. President Volodymyr Zelenskyy's efforts to maintain dialogue with Washington have apparently paid off, but the situation remains delicate.

The controversy surrounding Starlink speed limits has persisted despite assurances from Kyiv that they have been lifted for objects traveling at speeds over 400 kph. Questions still linger about who ordered the initial slowdowns and whether there was White House involvement.

Meanwhile, Ukrainian forces continue to target Moscow-installed authorities in occupied Crimea with overnight attacks, causing power blackouts in several cities across the region.

Ukraine's military has continued its campaign to disrupt Russia's supply chain, with overnight attacks targeting key industrial facilities in several cities.

In Tolyatti, a major chemical plant was hit, producing materials used in rocket fuel, while an electronics plant in Oryol came under attack, making components for Russian cruise and ballistic missiles. Local officials in Oryol reported three fatalities from the Friday evening strike, adding to the toll of the ongoing conflict. The Ukrainian General Staff has confirmed these incidents, highlighting the ongoing efforts to cripple Russia's military capabilities.