New York: US lawmakers have launched an investigation into SpaceX, led by entrepreneur Elon Musk, following accusations from Ukraine regarding the deployment of the company’s Starlink satellite service by Russian troops in the ongoing conflict. This development was reported by the Washington Post on Thursday.
Representatives Jamie Raskin (D-Maryland) and Robert Garcia (D-California) took action by sending a letter on Wednesday urging SpaceX to reveal any reports or complaints regarding the potential illicit use of Starlink terminals.
Expressing deep concern over Ukrainian claims that Russian forces have utilized Starlink terminals, potentially violating US sanctions laws, the lawmakers highlighted the gravity of the situation. They cautioned Gwynne Shotwell, SpaceX’s president, about the implications of Russia accessing Starlink, stressing its serious threat to Ukrainian security and its compromise of US national security.
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“We are concerned that you may not have appropriate guardrails and policies in place,” Raskin and Garcia emphasized in their letter.
Additionally, they announced their intentions to collaborate with the Pentagon and other relevant agencies, underscoring the necessity of preventing trade that could bolster the capabilities of the Russian military.
Earlier, Ukraine’s Main Directorate of Intelligence (GUR) had asserted that Russian troops were increasingly relying on Starlink services on the battlefield, citing intercepted conversations among Russian military personnel.
However, Elon Musk, CEO of SpaceX, rebuffed these allegations, affirming that “no Starlinks have been sold directly or indirectly to Russia.” Similarly, the Kremlin denied any military orders of Starlink terminals, citing a lack of certification within the country.
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Musk had previously donated approximately 20,000 Starlink terminals to Ukraine shortly after the commencement of Russia’s military operation in February 2022. These terminals have been instrumental in assisting Ukrainian troops in operating drones along the front lines.
Nevertheless, Musk disclosed last year that he had declined a Ukrainian request to activate the Starlink service in Crimea. SpaceX chose to abide by regulations, refraining from actions without direct orders from US leadership. While expressing solidarity with Ukraine, Musk reiterated his preference for a peaceful resolution to the conflict.
The Washington Post reported that the US Defense Department procured up to 500 new Starlink terminals for Ukraine in June 2023, as highlighted in the letter from House Democrats.
