Tensions have escalated between Tesla and SpaceX CEO Elon Musk and Polish Foreign Minister Radoslaw Sikorski over the use of Starlink internet services in Ukraine, amid the ongoing conflict with Russia.
Musk, who has faced criticism for his outspoken views on Ukraine and Russia, defended Starlink’s critical role in keeping Ukraine’s military communications intact. He claimed that without Starlink, Ukraine’s “entire front line would collapse.”
Musk argued that the Russian military could jam other communication networks, making Starlink vital for Ukraine’s survival.
The clash began when Sikorski suggested that Poland, which has been paying for Starlink’s services to Ukraine, might need to find alternative suppliers if Musk’s satellite service proves unreliable.
Sikorski's comments came after Musk’s statement that he was “sickened” by the prolonged war and stalemate, where he expressed frustration over the lack of resolution.
Starlinks for Ukraine are paid for by the Polish Digitization Ministry at the cost of about $50 million per year.
— Radosław Sikorski 🇵🇱🇪🇺 (@sikorskiradek) March 9, 2025
The ethics of threatening the victim of aggression apart, if SpaceX proves to be an unreliable provider we will be forced to look for other suppliers. https://t.co/WaJWCklgPE
Senator Marco Rubio quickly came to Musk’s defence, accusing Sikorski of "making things up" and claiming that without Starlink, Ukraine would have already lost the war. Rubio also praised Musk for keeping Starlink operational in Ukraine, suggesting that it was the only thing preventing a Russian advance towards Poland.
What Secretary Rubio says is absolutely correct https://t.co/S5rZoVPY0q
— Elon Musk (@elonmusk) March 9, 2025
Just making things up.
— Marco Rubio (@marcorubio) March 9, 2025
No one has made any threats about cutting Ukraine off from Starlink
And say thank you because
without Starlink Ukraine would have lost this war long ago and Russians would be on the border with Poland right now https://t.co/ImeiHFgaaw
Musk responded directly to Sikorski, telling him to “be quiet, small man,” adding that Poland’s contribution to the costs was minimal compared to other nations, including the US.
Musk reiterated that despite disagreements with Ukraine’s policies, he would ensure Starlink would never be turned off in Ukraine.
In a post on social media, Musk clarified, “No matter how much I disagree with the Ukraine policy, Starlink will never turn off its terminals.” He stressed that the service would remain operational and would not be used as leverage in diplomatic negotiations.
Poland has funded roughly half of the 42,000 Starlink terminals operating in Ukraine, which have provided essential internet connectivity for both military and civilian use, especially after Russia’s invasion in February 2022 destroyed much of Ukraine's communication infrastructure.
Musk’s position came amid broader geopolitical tensions, with US President Donald Trump having recently paused military aid and intelligence sharing with Ukraine. However, US officials have indicated that this suspension may be lifted pending successful diplomatic talks, with an upcoming meeting in Saudi Arabia between Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy and US representatives.
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