Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has reportedly reached out to President-elect Donald Trump in an effort to secure broader access to the Starlink satellite network. The request centers on the current operational limitations imposed by SpaceX CEO Elon Musk, which restrict the use of Starlink for military operations inside Russian territory. While Musk has permitted the Ukrainian military to utilize the satellite system within Ukraine—including areas currently occupied by Russian forces—he has maintained a strict policy against using the technology to facilitate strikes deep within Russia.

Reports indicate that Zelensky views Trump’s personal relationship with Musk as a potential avenue to influence these policy restrictions. The Ukrainian government has long relied on Starlink for battlefield communications and drone operations, making the system a critical component of their defense infrastructure. However, Musk has expressed concerns that enabling the use of Starlink for offensive strikes inside Russia could escalate the conflict and potentially draw the United States into a direct confrontation with Moscow. As the transition of power in the U.S. approaches, the Ukrainian leadership appears to be testing whether a change in administration might lead to a shift in how private technology partners manage their support for the war effort. There has been no official confirmation from the Trump transition team or SpaceX regarding whether such a request was formally made or how it was received.