Elon Musk's Starlink Direct-To-Cell Passes Ukraine Test, Setting Stage For Nationwide Satellite Smartphone Coverage

SpaceX‘s satellite internet service successfully tested technology that could transform mobile connectivity across war-torn Ukraine, marking a significant advancement for Tesla Inc. TSLA CEO Elon Musk‘s space venture.

Ukraine Officials Test Revolutionary Technology

Mykhailo Fedorov, Ukraine’s First Vice Prime Minister and Minister of Digital Transformation, announced Tuesday on X that he tested Starlink’s Direct-to-Cell technology with Kyivstar CEO Oleksandr Komarov. “Satellite connectivity — in every Ukrainian’s smartphone,” Fedorov wrote, calling it “technology of the future.”

Musk reposted Fedorov’s announcement, signaling SpaceX’s commitment to expanding the service despite ongoing geopolitical tensions.

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Strategic Context Amid Political Pressure

The successful test comes as Starlink faces mounting pressure from U.S. officials. The Trump administration has threatened to cut Ukraine’s Starlink access over mineral rights disputes, with negotiators demanding access to Ukraine’s critical mineral resources worth $500 billion.

Sen. Maggie Hassan (D-NH) recently urged Musk to prevent criminal organizations in Southeast Asia from using Starlink for financial fraud operations targeting Americans.

Market Implications for Satellite Competition

European competitor Eutelsat Communications has surged over 630% in March as Trump froze Ukraine’s military aid, positioning itself to potentially replace 40,000 Starlink terminals. The French satellite operator is in talks with the European Union about assuming SpaceX’s role in Ukraine.

Federal Communications Commission Chairman Brendan Carr has defended Starlink against European “protectionism,” warning allies that China’s satellite alternatives pose greater security risks than Musk’s service.

Technology Advances Despite Historical Controversies

Starlink continues operating in Ukraine despite reports that Musk ordered service shutdowns during Ukraine’s 2022 counteroffensive against Russia in strategic areas, including Kherson. The alleged blackout affected Ukrainian military communications during critical operations.

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Disclaimer: This content was partially produced with the help of AI tools and was reviewed and published by Benzinga editors.

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