New restrictions on the speed at which some Ukrainian weapons can connect to the Starlink internet network have disrupted battlefield missions, a presidential adviser has warned. Serhiy Beskrestnov, an adviser to President Volodymyr Zelensky, stated on Wednesday that Ukraine was not informed of the speed limits, set by Elon Musk's SpaceX at 100 mph (160 km/h).

Starlink has become a critical tool for Ukraine, enabling the effective guidance of drones to Russian targets and bolstering air defense capabilities. Beskrestnov suggested that SpaceX's move was not coincidental and is tied to the current political climate, noting that the firm has not yet commented on the situation.

In a Telegram post, Beskrestnov detailed that SpaceX implemented overnight speed restrictions on Starlink terminals, which have already led to the disruption of several missions. He emphasized Starlink's crucial role in enabling interceptors to shoot down Russia's advanced jet-propelled drones, a capability now potentially compromised.

These restrictions come as Ukraine faces intensified Russian attacks. President Zelensky reported that at least 600,000 people were left without electricity following deadly overnight Russian missile and drone strikes targeting critical energy infrastructure in Kyiv, the Kyiv region, and Kharkiv. Three people were killed in Kyiv alone, according to local officials.

Sources within the Ukrainian defense ministry confirmed to the BBC the detection of Starlink connectivity restrictions affecting speeds above 160 km/h. The ministry is investigating the root cause of these limitations, which they explained cause a terminal to lose connection once a vehicle or asset exceeds this speed threshold.

These limitations significantly impede drone operations, particularly for interceptors and mid-range strike drones, and also degrade capabilities for front-line logistics, reconnaissance, and signal relaying, according to defense ministry sources.

This development echoes previous instances where Starlink's availability has been a point of contention. In February, Musk's decision to deny Russian forces access to Starlink was credited with blunting Moscow's advance and causing confusion among Russian commanders. SpaceX has not commented on the reported speed restrictions.

The implications of these restrictions on Ukraine's ability to conduct operations and defend its territory remain a significant concern, particularly given the ongoing conflict and the reliance on advanced technology for battlefield effectiveness.