Zelenskyy Asks Trump to Secure Starlink Access for Russia Strikes

President Volodymyr Zelenskyy requested that U.S. President Donald Trump persuade Elon Musk to allow the use of Starlink satellite communications for guiding Ukrainian drone strikes deep inside Russia. During closed-door meetings at the White House and discussions on Capitol Hill, Zelenskyy argued that expanded access would enable Ukraine to destroy mobile ballistic missile launchers, reducing reliance on dwindling Patriot air defense interceptors before winter attacks on energy infrastructure.

Zelenskyy proposed the expanded access as a faster, cheaper alternative to receiving 300 requested Patriot interceptors, which are in short supply due to U.S. and Israeli conflicts with Iran. To further the case for support, Zelenskyy offered to share evidence of Russian assistance to Iran in targeting U.S. bases in the Middle East. Ukraine also suggested utilizing the more expensive military-grade Starshield network as an alternative.

Donald Trump stated he would consider the request and speak with Musk but made no firm commitment. Trump has also signaled hesitation regarding a previous commitment to license Patriot missile system production for Ukraine, citing the difficulty of giving away such technology. Meanwhile, Elon Musk reportedly declined a request for a separate meeting with Zelenskyy and continues to restrict Starlink operations within Russian territory.