Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has urged Washington to expand Ukraine’s access to Starlink satellite services following another wave of deadly Russian attacks. He said broader access would help Ukrainian forces target ballistic-missile launchers and strengthen the country’s ability to defend its cities.
Satellite access becomes a diplomatic priority
Zelenskyy argued that greater freedom to use Starlink could help Ukraine counter Russian attacks at their source. He presented the request as a defensive measure and said stronger control of the skies would increase pressure on President Vladimir Putin to negotiate.
The appeal concerns extending the service’s permitted military use, including against targets inside Russia. Previous reporting has described Ukrainian efforts to obtain permission for Starlink-equipped drones to strike missile-launching positions beyond the border.
Starlink is operated by Elon Musk’s SpaceX. Kyiv’s discussions have involved both American political leaders and the company, reflecting the role of commercial satellite infrastructure in Ukraine’s military operations. No new agreement expanding access was announced alongside Zelenskyy’s remarks.
Russian strikes cause heavy casualties
Ukrainian authorities reported at least 35 deaths in Kramatorsk on Thursday following attacks that included a strike affecting two buses and a later drone assault. Zelenskyy said Russian strikes across Ukraine had killed 78 people and wounded 215 over two days.
The previous day, an attack destroyed part of a residential building in Pryluky. The Financial Times reported that public transport services in Kramatorsk and nearby Sloviansk had been suspended because of continuing threats.
Criticism of Washington’s approach
Zelenskyy questioned how Washington could pursue economic discussions with Moscow while describing peace efforts as stalled. He also urged President Donald Trump to increase sanctions pressure on Russia.
His comments reflected frustration with the gap between diplomatic engagement and Ukraine’s requests for stronger protection against aerial attacks. The Ukrainian president argued that improved military capabilities could change the conditions under which negotiations take place.
Further talks planned in the United States
Ukrainian negotiators were expected to meet American representatives on Friday and Saturday. Zelenskyy said air defence would be a priority and that he expected European partners to join discussions in the coming days.
The meetings provide another opportunity for Kyiv to press its requests, although neither expanded Starlink permissions nor additional air-defence commitments had been confirmed in the reports.
Newshub Editorial in Europe – 9 October 2026
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has urged Washington to expand Ukraine’s access to Starlink satellite services following another wave of deadly Russian attacks. He said broader access would help Ukrainian forces target ballistic-missile launchers and strengthen the country’s ability to defend its cities.
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