Joseph Isangura
The United States has reportedly warned Ukraine that its access to Elon Musk’s Starlink internet service could be cut off unless Kyiv agrees to grant American companies rights to its critical mineral resources.
The development, first reported by Reuters, has raised concerns about the growing overlap between military aid and economic interests in the ongoing conflict.
Since Russia’s invasion in 2022, Starlink has played a vital role in Ukraine’s defense efforts, ensuring stable communication for both civilians and the military. The potential loss of this service would be a significant setback, especially for troops relying on it for secure battlefield operations.
At the heart of the dispute is a U.S. proposal seeking access to Ukraine’s reserves of rare earth minerals, including lithium, titanium, and graphite—resources crucial for global technology and defense industries. According to sources familiar with the matter, U.S. officials have framed this as part of a broader discussion about economic cooperation and security. However, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has hesitated to agree, citing concerns about national sovereignty and the lack of clear security guarantees in return.
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During a meeting in Kyiv with U.S. Special Envoy Keith Kellogg, Ukrainian officials were reportedly told that failure to finalize the mineral agreement could result in the suspension of Starlink services. The situation has reignited debates about how much influence private technology firms and international allies should have over a country at war.
While some U.S. officials have expressed strong support for Ukraine, the discussions have also exposed divisions within Washington. Trump administration figures have sent mixed signals, with some praising Zelenskyy’s leadership while others have been more critical.
For Ukraine, the stakes are high. The country must navigate complex geopolitical pressures while ensuring that it does not lose access to critical infrastructure in the middle of an ongoing war.
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