Musk warns Ukraine's frontline could collapse without Starlink support
What's the story
Billionaire entrepreneur Elon Musk has issued a stark warning about a possible collapse of Ukraine's defense system. He said if he "turned off" his Starlink satellite internet system, the entire front line would collapse. This comes after he criticized Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy for pushing what he called a "forever war" with Russia.
Conflict criticism
Musk expresses his discontent with the ongoing conflict
Musk took to X (formerly Twitter) to express his discontent with the prolonged conflict in Ukraine. He said, "What I am sickened by is years of slaughter in a stalemate that Ukraine will inevitably lose." The billionaire further emphasized, "Anyone who really cares, really thinks and really understands wants the meat grinder to stop. PEACE NOW."
Sanction proposal
Musk advocates for sanctions on Ukrainian oligarchs
Along with his criticism of the ongoing war, Musk has also suggested sanctions on the top 10 Ukrainian oligarchs. He specifically targeted those who have mansions in Monaco after a massive Ukrainian flag was unfurled near the White House. He insinuated that it was the Ukrainian oligarchs funding Democrats's actions. "Place sanctions on the top 10 Ukrainian oligarchs, especially the ones with mansions in Monaco, and this will stop immediately," he suggested.
Leader criticism
Musk's controversial remarks on Zelenskyy
Musk has also made some controversial remarks about President Zelenskyy. Agreeing with a post on X accusing Zelenskyy of prolonging the war to maintain power, Musk said, "True," suggesting that "Zelensky should be offered some kind of amnesty in a neutral country in exchange for a peaceful transition back to democracy in Ukraine." He even accused Zelensky of wanting a "forever war" and called his actions evil.
Twitter Post
Musk's post on X asking for sanctions on Ukrainian oligarchs
Place sanctions on the top 10 Ukrainian oligarchs, especially the ones with mansions in Monaco, and this will stop immediately.
— Elon Musk (@elonmusk) March 9, 2025
That is the key to the puzzle. https://t.co/hgw8tQsEs6
Satellite significance
Importance of Starlink in Ukraine's defense
Starlink, a satellite internet constellation operated by Musk's SpaceX, has been key to Ukraine's military communications. The service allows users to access the internet for data or voice communication through a small satellite dish. The technology has been vital for Ukraine's armed forces as it lets them communicate on the front lines even in the face of heavy signal jamming and interception of communications. Ukraine also used Starlink to guide attack drones until SpaceX curbed the practice two years ago.