The Pentagon is unable to compel SpaceX to cut service to Russian forces using Starlink satellite terminals in Ukraine, according to John Plumb, Assistant Defense Secretary for Space Policy. Plumb stated that the Defense Department is aware of Ukraine's concerns and is working with both Ukraine and Starlink to address the issue.
The Breakdown
The Pentagon acknowledges that Starlink is a commercial product and that efforts by various actors, including Russia, to obtain and use the service must be understood and addressed. The Defense Department is working with Ukraine and SpaceX to provide the necessary services to Ukraine while preventing unauthorized use by Russian forces.
Commercial Warfare
The Pentagon's inability to force Starlink to block service to Russians highlights the challenges of regulating commercial satellite services in conflict zones. Efforts to mitigate the misuse of Starlink by malign actors are ongoing, but the details remain classified.