When Starshield Cut Out, Ukrainian Drones Fell From the Skies

A Ukrainian commander said Starshield connectivity problems disrupted drone operations, causing some aircraft to lose contact with their pilots and fall. The commander, identified only as Oleh, said his unit lost more than $1 million in weaponry and halted most operations for three days, including strikes on Russian targets. Ukrainian troops later reported improved service but continuing connection issues. The disruption became a political flashpoint, with Ukrainian officials linking it to throttling while U.S. officials offered conflicting explanations and Elon Musk denied directing any limits on service.