Elon Musk’s threat to limit Starlink service in Ukraine has caused alarm in Kyiv and across Europe. Starlink is a satellite internet system that has helped Ukraine stay connected during the war. Ukrainian leaders are now asking the European Union (EU) for backup options. The EU is offering alternative systems like Govsatcom and Eutelsat to support Ukraine’s internet needs on and off the battlefield.
Starlink: A Lifeline at Risk
Since Russia invaded Ukraine in 2022, Starlink has been a lifeline. The satellite network has provided reliable internet for both civilians and the military. Over 40,000 Starlink terminals are in use across Ukraine. These terminals help with everything from sending emails to guiding drones in real time.
But the system is owned by Elon Musk’s SpaceX. Musk’s recent comments about cutting service in certain war zones sparked concern. Ukrainian officials fear losing a tool that has become key to their defense.
“Starlink controls Ukraine’s war connectivity. That’s a strategic weakness,” said Arthur De Liedekerke, a senior analyst at Rasmussen Global. His words reflect the growing worry in both Ukraine and Europe.
Ukraine Reaches Out to Europe
To reduce the risk of losing Starlink, Ukrainian officials reached out to the EU. They asked for help in finding other satellite services. In response, the EU pointed to existing solutions like Govsatcom and Eutelsat.
Christophe Grudler, a Member of the European Parliament (MEP) for Renew Europe, confirmed that the EU is ready to help.
“We can replace Starlink if needed,” Grudler said. “We already have systems that can step in.”
What is Govsatcom?
Govsatcom is a secure satellite communication system designed for EU governments. It connects European agencies through space-based networks. While it doesn’t match Starlink’s speed or reach, it can cover basic communication needs.
Ukraine has already shown interest in joining Govsatcom. Starting in June, the EU plans to use Govsatcom to fill any short-term gaps.
However, experts are not sure if Govsatcom can work well in battle.
“It secures government networks, not live front-line military communications,” De Liedekerke noted.
Eutelsat: A European Satellite Option
Another option is Eutelsat, a Franco-British company with 630 low-orbit and 35 geostationary satellites. Eutelsat uses similar low-Earth orbit (LEO) technology like Starlink.
Right now, Eutelsat has only 2,000 terminals in Ukraine. But it plans to ship 14,000 more in the coming months.
The problem is the cost. Each Eutelsat terminal is about €9,000, while a Starlink terminal costs around €500. Still, European leaders say it’s a price worth paying for independence.
“Eutelsat is our best alternative—European-owned, effective, and worthy of strategic investment,” said De Liedekerke.
Long-Term Plan: The Iris2 Project
While Govsatcom and Eutelsat are short-term fixes, the Iris2 project offers a long-term solution. The EU launched Iris2 to build its own satellite internet network. The system will have 290 satellites in low and medium orbits.
Grudler, who helped lead the project in Parliament, said the network will start providing early services before full rollout in 2030. One key feature is post-quantum encryption, which can protect data from future cyberattacks.
“No cyberattacks will break this constellation—it’s a global first,” Grudler said.
The SpaceRISE consortium runs Iris2. It includes big names like Airbus, Eutelsat, Thales, and Deutsche Telekom.
A Call for Diversification
The situation highlights a larger issue: dependence on private companies for national security.
“We must avoid relying on a single system. One failure shouldn’t bring everything down,” said De Liedekerke.
Giving one man, even someone like Elon Musk, control over a nation’s battlefield internet is risky. The EU’s goal now is to create a safer and more balanced setup.
Past Incidents and Repeated Warnings
This isn’t the first time Musk’s control over Starlink has raised alarms. In 2023, there were reports that SpaceX restricted Starlink use during a Ukrainian operation in Crimea. Musk said he wanted to prevent an escalation in the war, but Ukraine saw it as interference.
These incidents show the danger of relying on one private actor. While Starlink has helped Ukraine greatly, its future use remains uncertain.
Europe’s Role Moving Forward
Ukraine’s call for help has been heard. The EU is working to offer safe, fast, and reliable alternatives. While Starlink remains active for now, Europe wants to be ready if that changes.
For Ukraine, the move is about more than just internet. It’s about national defense, independence, and survival. For the EU, it’s a test of unity and quick response in a time of need.