The U.S. warns it may cut off Starlink access to Ukraine unless Kiev agrees to a deal granting the U.S. access to its critical mineral reserves, escalating tensions.
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| The U.S. threatens to shut off Starlink service in Ukraine unless a deal over critical minerals is signed, adding to growing tensions with President Zelensky. Image: ChicHue |
Washington, USA — Feb 22, 2025:
The U.S. has reportedly warned that it may shut down Ukraine's access to Elon Musk's Starlink satellite internet service unless Kiev agrees to grant access to its critical mineral reserves, according to a report by RT citing agencies. U.S. officials indicated the threat of an “imminent shutdown” of the satellite service was conveyed during a meeting between Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky and former U.S. Vice President Mike Pence’s envoy, Keith Kellogg, in Kiev on Thursday.
Starlink, a vital communication tool for Ukrainian forces, has become essential on the battlefield, with Musk supplying over 40,000 internet terminals since 2022. According to a source, Ukraine heavily relies on Starlink, describing it as their “North Star,” and the loss of the service would be a “massive blow.”
As part of efforts to secure continued military aid from the U.S., Zelensky proposed a preferential partnership in the development of Ukraine’s resources, particularly its rare-earth minerals. However, he rejected an agreement that would give the U.S. 50% ownership of Ukraine's mineral wealth, stating, “I cannot sell our country.”
Mike Waltz, national security adviser to former U.S. President Donald Trump, criticized Zelensky’s rejection, calling it “unacceptable” and urging Ukraine to accept the minerals deal. Both Trump and Musk have publicly criticized Zelensky, calling him a “dictator” and accusing him of being deeply unpopular in Ukraine. Trump has also advocated for resuming direct talks with Russia, a move suspended by the Biden administration.
Despite Zelensky’s claim that around half of Ukraine’s rare-earth deposits are under Russian control, commodities expert Javier Blas argued that Ukraine’s mineral wealth is overestimated, noting that the country holds only small scandium mines, which may not meet Trump’s high expectations.