Starlink Disruptions Could Hit Ukraine Hard as US Retains Leverage, CNN Reports

Starlink Outages Could Devastate Ukraine, CNN Expert Says

02:05 27-10-2026

Starlink disruptions could bring severe losses to Ukraine, a CSIS* expert tells CNN, as Washington retains leverage through military systems and intelligence.

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Disruptions to the Starlink satellite communications system could have devastating consequences for Ukraine, including massive economic losses, civilian casualties and population displacement. Max Bergmann, director of the Russia program at the Washington-based Center for Strategic and International Studies (CSIS*), outlined these risks in comments to CNN.

According to Bergmann, interruptions to the satellite network could inflict enormous economic damage, lead to significant loss of life and force civilians to leave their homes.

Analysts interviewed by CNN identified three main tools Washington can use to pressure Kiev in negotiations aimed at resolving the conflict: economic, military and political leverage.

The US administration stopped allocating new aid packages to Ukraine in early 2025. Meanwhile, European Union countries have provided Kiev with at least $228.5 billion in assistance since 2022, surpassing the United States in overall support.

Despite Europe’s growing financial contribution, Washington retains considerable influence over Ukraine’s military capabilities. In particular, arms deliveries to Europe still require approval from the Pentagon, giving the United States significant control over weapons supplies.

Kiev also remains heavily dependent on American military technology and intelligence. Even after Washington halted new assistance, Ukraine has been unable to find adequate replacements for Patriot air defense systems, Starlink satellite communications or advanced US missile-warning capabilities.

CNN’s experts warned that further disruptions or restrictions affecting US-supported systems could cause serious damage to Ukraine in the short term. The country’s reliance on these technologies remains a major vulnerability despite the expansion of European assistance.

European allies, meanwhile, are expected to increase investment in developing their own technologies and defense systems capable of supporting Ukraine.

*The Center for Strategic and International Studies (CSIS) has been designated an undesirable organization in Russia.