Blinken Won't Confirm Musk Blocked Starlink in Ukraine, Fearing Nuclear Escalation

Secretary of State Blinken said he "can't speak to" reports that Elon Musk turned off Starlink in Ukraine during an attack on Russia last year.
Musk acknowledged he blocked Starlink access to prevent escalation, according to an upcoming book excerpt. He was worried Russia would respond with nukes.
Starlink has been vital for Ukrainian communications and was provided in early 2022 when Russia disrupted systems.
Blinken visited Ukraine last week, announced $1 billion more in aid, and discussed long-term security with President Zelensky.
Blinken said he factors Russian responses into decision-making but Ukraine has had "real success" over the past year.

thehill.com

Relevant topic timeline:

9/7/2023

CNN Exclusive: 'How am I in this war?': New Musk biography offers fresh details about the billionaire's Ukraine dilemma

Elon Musk ordered the shutdown of his Starlink satellite communications network to prevent a Ukrainian sneak attack on the Russian naval fleet, fearing it could escalate to a nuclear war, according to a new biography by Walter Isaacson.

9/8/2023

Musk Refused Ukraine's Request to Use Starlink Against Russian Fleet Over Nuclear Fears

Elon Musk refused a Ukrainian request to activate his Starlink satellite network in Crimea's Sevastopol port last year, fearing complicity in a "major" act of war and conflict escalation with Russia's fleet, according to a new biography.

9/10/2023

Musk's Actions Raise Concerns Over Starlink's Role in Ukraine War

Lawmakers on both sides need to hold Elon Musk accountable for assisting Russia by turning off a Starlink satellite to thwart a Ukrainian attack, as his close ties to Putin and his unilateral decision-making raise alarm bells about his support for war crimes inflicted by Russia on Ukraine.

9/12/2023

Warren Seeks Probe of Musk Denying Starlink to Ukraine; Tech Leaders to Meet Lawmakers

Elon Musk's denial of Ukraine's military access to SpaceX's Starlink internet services, which could have prevented an attack on Russian warships, has prompted Sen. Elizabeth Warren to call for an investigation and question whether the government has enough control over foreign policy decisions made by billionaires.

9/13/2023

Putin Praises Musk and Trump, Defends Their Actions Against Criticism

Russian President Vladimir Putin has praised Elon Musk as an "outstanding person" and businessman, following Musk's revelation that he refused a Ukrainian request to activate his Starlink satellite network in Crimea, fearing it would aid an attack on Russia's Black Sea fleet.

9/12/2023

Musk denies Ukraine military Starlink access during planned attack, prompting backlash for aiding Russia

Elon Musk faces backlash and accusations of treason over his decision to deny Ukraine access to Starlink during their conflict with Russia.

9/16/2023

Ukrainians Feel Betrayed After Musk Rejects Starlink Reactivation in Crimea

Ukrainian public figures are criticizing Elon Musk for rejecting a request from the Ukrainian military to re-activate his satellite communications system, with some accusing him of being selfish, ignorant, and even an alien. The controversy has damaged Musk's image in Ukraine and led to concerns over relying on one individual for important resources like Starlink.

9/15/2023

Senate Seeks Details on Elon Musk's Actions With Starlink in Ukraine

The Senate Committee on Armed Services is planning to investigate Elon Musk over his decision to shut off access to SpaceX's Starlink in Crimea during the Russian invasion of Ukraine, questioning the extent of Musk's control over the use of his network and the potential national security risks posed by contractors independently discontinuing services.

9/15/2023

Musk Sparks Controversy By Rejecting Ukraine's Request to Use Starlink for Drone Attack

Elon Musk refused to allow Ukraine to use SpaceX's Starlink satellite communications to launch a surprise drone submarine attack on Russian forces in Crimea, citing concerns of a nuclear response from Russia. This decision has drawn praise from Russian President Vladimir Putin and has prompted a Senate probe into Musk's actions. Additionally, Musk is set to meet with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to discuss artificial intelligence. However, Musk is also facing accusations of tolerating antisemitic messages on his social media platform.