U.S. Media: America Threatens to Stop Sharing Intelligence with Ukraine
On October 14, Xinhua News Agency reported from Washington that the U.S. newspaper The Washington Post cited a knowledgeable source stating that U.S. intelligence officials warned the Ukrainian embassy in the United States that if Russian energy facilities were subjected to more attacks by Ukraine, the U.S. would immediately cease sharing all intelligence with Ukraine.
The source indicated that the U.S. issued this threat on the 12th, and although the U.S. has not completely cut off intelligence sharing with Ukraine, the threat still exists.
According to reports, the Ukrainian military relies on a secure, militarized version of the "Starlink" internet service, known as "Starshield," to conduct critical military operations. Ukrainian presidential advisor Mykhailo Podolyak stated on social media on the 14th that overnight, SpaceX implemented speed restrictions on the operational "Starlink" satellite internet system terminals. The Ukrainian military had not received any prior warning, leading to disruptions in several missions.
The report also cited an unnamed staff member from the Ukrainian Ministry of Defense saying that the ministry is unclear whether these restrictions are due to a change in policy.
It was reported that the relevant system had not previously experienced speed restrictions, allowing the Ukrainian military to strike targets quickly and effectively. The speed restrictions could impact logistics support and the operation of systems such as drones.
Elon Musk, CEO of SpaceX, stated on social media on the 14th that the "Starshield" satellite communication system used by Ukraine is owned and controlled by the U.S. government, and any restrictions regarding speed or usage are determined by the U.S. military, ultimately depending on the U.S. president.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said in an interview with U.S. media on the 13th that the U.S. has not stopped intelligence sharing, but Ukraine has received warnings that cooperation may be suspended. U.S. President Trump stated on the same day that the U.S. is still sharing intelligence with Ukraine.
U.S. intelligence officials warned Ukraine that intelligence sharing could be halted if attacks on Russian energy facilities continue. This warning was issued on October 12, 2023, amid concerns over the operational capabilities of Ukraine's military, which relies on the Starshield internet service. Elon Musk confirmed that the U.S. government controls the Starshield system, and recent speed limitations have disrupted Ukrainian military operations.
- U.S. intelligence officials warned Ukraine about potential cessation of intelligence sharing.
- The warning was issued on October 12, 2023.
- Ukraine relies on a military version of Starlink for critical operations.
- Elon Musk stated that the U.S. government controls the Starshield system.
- Ukrainian officials are uncertain if recent speed limitations on Starshield are due to policy changes.