Ukraine Says Starlink, Starshield Speed Limits Persist; Trump Denies Calling Musk

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said Friday that speed restrictions on SpaceX's Starlink and military communications service Starshield remain in place, continuing to hamper frontline drone operations and strikes on Russian logistics. The claim contradicts President Donald Trump, who said a day earlier the service had been restored and on Friday denied ever calling Elon Musk about the matter, saying he would reach out if it remains unresolved. Zelensky said on X that the limits and reduced connection speeds "still exist." Since October 14, Ukrainian officials have alleged SpaceX capped Starshield speeds, causing drones flying above 100 mph to lose connectivity. Zelensky defense-tech adviser Serhii Beskrestnov confirmed the restrictions via Telegram, and Ukraine's deputy ambassador to the U.S., Denys Sienik, said the situation was unchanged as of Friday. The Wall Street Journal reported Thursday that Trump called Musk to lift the limits. Congressional Democrats have demanded an investigation, and bipartisan lawmakers urged the Pentagon to expand Starshield arrangements. Ukraine is pursuing alternatives, including talks with Norway's Kongsberg and letters of intent with Nokia and ICEYE. SpaceX (SPCX-US) rose 1.89% Friday to $147.49, valuing it near $2 trillion; shares fell 1.16% for the week.