Turner Demands Investigation into Starlink Slowdown in Ukraine
GOP Rep. Mike Turner calls for congressional probe into Starlink slowdown affecting Ukraine’s defense efforts.
2 min read
During an appearance on CBS’s “Face the Nation,” Republican Representative Mike Turner of Ohio called for a congressional investigation into the recent slowdown of Starlink services in Ukraine, citing potential risks to national security and military operations. Turner expressed concern over the disruption of the satellite internet network, which Ukraine relies on for communication and drone control, despite assurances from Secretary of State Marco Rubio that the U.S. government had not ordered the slowdown.
Turner Calls for Congressional Inquiry
Turner argued that the situation warranted a thorough investigation, emphasizing that the issue could involve unauthorized actions by individuals within the Pentagon or other agencies. He noted that the slowdown had led to spotty connectivity in parts of Ukraine, putting lives at risk during ongoing Russian aggression. “There needs to be an investigation,” Turner said, stressing that the issue is critical to the U.S. support for Ukraine’s defense efforts.
Turner also highlighted the broader implications of the incident, suggesting that the disruption could stem from a policy decision to limit Starlink’s use for offensive military actions. While acknowledging Elon Musk’s public opposition to the use of Starlink for offensive purposes, Turner maintained that the issue is within Ukraine and related to the country’s defense against Russian aggression.
Conflicting Accounts and Responsibility
Brennan posed a question about the conflicting accounts of who was responsible for the slowdown, with Rubio stating that no official order had been issued. Turner responded by emphasizing the need for clarity and accountability, stressing that the situation could have serious consequences for Ukraine’s ability to defend itself. He pointed to recent reports from the Institute for the Study of War and President Zelenskyy, which indicated that the service had been partially restored but still faced challenges in certain areas.
Turner concluded by reiterating the importance of restoring full Starlink functionality for Ukraine, stating that the issue is essential to the United States’ support for the country’s defense against Russian aggression. His comments reflect growing concerns among lawmakers about the reliability and security of critical technologies used in military operations.
Source: Breitbart
