Zelensky Warns China Is Helping Russia Develop a Starlink Rival

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy says China is helping Russia develop Rassvet, a satellite communications network intended to rival SpaceX’s Starlink. He told the Financial Times that Beijing was contributing satellite technology and support, and urged U.S. President Donald Trump to sanction Russian and Chinese companies involved. Ukrainian officials warn the system could support military communications, reconnaissance and long-range drone operations. Rassvet is being developed by Russia’s Bureau 1440; Ukrainian officials say it could become operational by late 2026 or early 2027, though technical challenges remain.