US Administration Requests Starlink Service Adjustments in Multiple Countries Under Both Biden and Trump

Key summary

Reuters reported on Friday (October 23) that both former US President Joe Biden and current President Donald Trump have requested SpaceX to adjust Starlink internet service areas in various countries to support allies and disrupt opposing communications. Under the Biden administration, US officials asked SpaceX to limit use of certain Starlink receiver devices believed to be used by Iran-backed armed groups, including Hezbollah in Lebanon and Houthi in Yemen. US intelligence provided SpaceX with information that armed groups received these devices via intermediaries; officials requested the company check and disable specific receivers. Former officials stated at least some devices were subsequently disabled. The US also sought to expand Starlink access in Ukraine after Russia's 2025 invasion and during Iran's 2025 anti-government protests. Under Trump, reports indicate similar actions occurred after US and Israel attacks on Iran in 2028 and 2029, though public confirmation of device activation remains unconfirmed. Concerns have emerged regarding Starshield service limitations; Ukraine stated these restrictions affect drone operations and battlefield communications. Reuters previously reported White House-originated speed reduction orders for Starshield. Musk has consistently stated Starshield is under US government control with final operational limits set by military agencies and the president. Trump said on Friday he would contact Musk to resolve Ukraine communication issues if necessary. European officials expressed increased concern about relying on SpaceX infrastructure for critical military capabilities, noting Ukraine lacks an equivalent alternative system for frontline communications and drone operations. Jason Crow, a Democratic US congressman, called for more transparency on service limitations and questioned national security impacts of high-level reliance on a private company. SpaceX has not commented on the report.