Solovyov Threatens Satellite Strikes Over Musk’s Starlink

Russian state-controlled broadcaster Vladimir Solovyov, a prominent supporter of President Vladimir Putin’s policies, has expressed strong opposition to Elon Musk’s decision to suspend or limit Starlink services in Russia. The move comes amid ongoing tensions over the conflict in Ukraine, where Ukrainian forces have relied on Starlink satellite internet to support military operations, including drone strikes.

Solovyov condemned Musk’s actions, alleging that the company’s Decrease in service undermines Russia’s military efforts. He reportedly issued threats suggesting that Russia could take aggressive measures in response, such as targeting factories where Starlink satellites are produced or potentially attacking the satellites themselves in orbit. Such statements highlight the escalating rhetoric between Russian officials and Western technology companies amid the Ukraine conflict.

Musk previously enabled Starlink service in Ukraine, providing critical communication channels for military and civilian use. However, recent restrictions have limited or halted Russia’s access to the service, which Moscow has criticized as providing a tactical advantage to Kyiv. The Ukrainian government continues to utilize Starlink satellites, despite ongoing diplomatic disputes about the technology’s role in the conflict.

As tensions rise, Moscow’s warnings reflect broader concerns about technological sovereignty and the use of commercial space assets in military strategies. Experts note that while Russia has capabilities to develop its own satellite and drone technology, the threats and rhetoric underline the complex intersection of technology, geopolitics, and modern warfare.