Successive U.S. administrations have reportedly sought to control where Space Exploration Technologies Corp.’s (NASDAQ:SPCX) satellite internet operates. This report comes amid questions surrounding Washington’s reliance on Elon Musk’s technology for military and foreign policy objectives.
Biden, Trump Administrations Sought Starlink Access Controls
The Joe Biden and Donald Trump administrations repeatedly asked Musk to activate or disable Starlink in different countries, Reuters reported on Friday, citing six former senior U.S. officials.
Under former President Biden, requests reportedly included shutting down access to prevent Iranian-backed militias in Yemen and Lebanon from communicating, while also enabling internet access inside Iran and Ukraine.
The Trump administration also sought to activate Starlink in Iran after U.S.-Israeli strikes in 2025 and 2026, hoping connectivity would help anti-government protesters communicate, the report added, citing a former Trump official and another person familiar with the matter.
The White House and SpaceX did not immediately respond to Benzinga’s request for comment.
Ukraine’s Starlink Restrictions Raise Security Concerns
The revelations come as Ukraine faces restrictions on its access to SpaceX’s satellite systems.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said limits on Starshield, the military-focused system, disrupted the performance of Ukrainian military drones.
Starlink speeds were also reduced.
Previously, it was reported that the White House ordered the restriction on Starshield access. The Trump administration acknowledged the slowdown but has not confirmed whether it ordered the restrictions.
President Donald Trump said Friday he had not discussed Ukraine’s access issues with Musk, adding, “If there is a problem, I’ll get it straightened out.”
Musk, meanwhile, said Starshield systems “are owned and controlled by the U.S. government” and that the president ultimately decides usage restrictions.
Europe Questions Dependence on SpaceX
Ukraine relies on Starlink for frontline communications and drone operations, with no immediate alternative offering comparable capabilities.
Ukrainian embassy spokesperson Halyna Yusypiuk said restoring normal service was a priority because “the lives of our people depend on it.”
Musk, on the other hand, accused Ukraine’s elite of profiting from Russia’s war.
According to Benzinga Edge Stock Rankings, SpaceX has positive price trends over the medium and long term, despite negative short-term trend.
Disclaimer: This content was partially produced with the help of AI tools and was reviewed and published by Benzinga editors.
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