President Volodymyr Zelensky questions Washington’s support after reported Starlink disruptions and concerns over intelligence sharing, while Kyiv says the changes threaten its ability to counter Russian attacks.

Ukraine has accused the United States of indirectly helping Russia after reported restrictions on the Starlink satellite internet system and concerns over access to intelligence about incoming Russian missile strikes.

 Kyiv says the developments could weaken its battlefield operations and leave Ukrainian cities more vulnerable to attacks, although Washington has not confirmed the allegations.

President Volodymyr Zelensky appealed to billionaire Elon Musk to restore Starlink services, saying reduced speeds had affected Ukrainian military operations.

While speaking in an interview, Zelensky said he hoped the disruption was a technical error and urged the service to be switched back on. Former Ukrainian Defence Minister Mykhailo Fedorov later announced that services supporting speeds of up to 160 kilometres per hour were being restored, which he said would help strike and interceptor drones resume operations.

The dispute comes amid wider tensions over US support for Kyiv.

 Zelensky said he felt betrayed by US President Donald Trump’s announcement of a diesel supply deal with Moscow, which remains under heavy sanctions.

 He also accused Russia of violating what he described as an energy ceasefire announced by Trump, following a series of powerful attacks late Tuesday and early Wednesday.

A senior Ukrainian official said Washington had recently threatened to suspend intelligence sharing on Russian missile launches, information Ukraine relies on to prepare for incoming attacks. 

Trump denied taking such action on Tuesday. Ukrainian defence officials also suggested the United States was responsible for reported speed reductions affecting some Starlink terminals used by troops and drone operators, but the claims have not been independently established.

Zelensky’s adviser, Sergiy Beskrestnov, warned that the reported restrictions could deprive Ukraine of one of its few means of defending itself against Russian jet-powered Shahed drones.

Also, he questioned the timing of the reported Starlink changes and the attacks, suggesting the developments were connected. Washington’s position on the alleged Starlink restrictions remains unclear.

The accusations highlight growing uncertainty over the future of US military and technological support for Ukraine as the war with Russia continues. 

For Kyiv, reliable satellite communications and timely intelligence remain critical to protecting civilians, coordinating forces, and intercepting incoming attacks.