The reliance on privately owned satellite services for international security matters is a concerning issue. It is outrageous that the United States, along with its allies, including Ukraine, would depend on a satellite service controlled by Elon Musk for their national security.

By denying satellite service in certain areas of Ukraine and Crimea, Musk indirectly supported Russian President Vladimir Putin, who has been accused of war crimes by the International Criminal Court. This act was seen as turning his back on Western democracies and aligning himself with autocratic leaders worldwide. The presence of Russian warships in the Black Sea poses a threat not only to Ukrainian grain exports but also increases the risk of terrorist attacks against Ukrainians. Such actions are unacceptable in the realm of international security.

If Musk has a policy that Starlink cannot be used for offensive purposes by a nation under attack, it should have been made clear from the very beginning of Russia’s aggression against Ukraine. However, it appears that Musk leaned towards placating Russian concerns while Russia continues to commit atrocities against the Ukrainian people. Russia’s unprovoked attack on Ukraine resulted in the separation of hundreds of thousands of Ukrainian children from their families, as well as the pillaging, torture, rape, and killing of thousands of Ukrainians. These actions violated existing international humanitarian laws.

The dependence on privately owned satellite services for national security raises concerns about the vulnerability of such systems. It is imperative that governments take the necessary measures to strengthen and secure their own national security infrastructure, rather than relying solely on private entities. Collaborations and partnerships can be established, but the ultimate responsibility should lie with the government to ensure the safety and security of its citizens and allies.