In a tweet posted today, billionaire Elon Musk hinted that his rocket business SpaceX would keep supporting Ukraine’s satellite-based Starlink internet service. However, the irascible Tesla CEO’s tone and words also gave rise to the suspicion that he was merely being ironic.
Musk frequently tweets jokes and insults and sometimes goes on unusual tangents, such as a recent series of tweets suggesting that one of his companies has begun selling its own line of fragrances.
If SpaceX has formed future plans for operation in Ukraine, it is unclear at this time.
Senior US sources yesterday revealed that Musk had formally requested that financing for the service Starlink offers in Ukraine be transferred to the Defense Department. Since the beginning of the country’s defence against Russia’s invasion in February, Starlink, which offers broadband internet connectivity using more than 2200 low-orbiting satellites, has supplied vital battlefield communications for Ukrainian military troops.
The Ukrainian government will continue to receive free funding from us, despite the fact that Starlink is still losing money and other businesses are receiving billions of taxpayer dollars, Musk tweeted.
Musk stated in an early-morning tweet that Ukraine’s communication demands cost SpaceX US$20 million (NZ$36 million) per month. Requests for comment from Tesla did not immediately receive a response.
Senior US sources said they spoke on the condition of anonymity because they were discussing a private topic that has not yet been made public. They said senior leaders have discussed and are considering the Starlink funding issue in meetings.
No choices have been made.
Musk: Ukraine’s satellite service may continue to be funded by SpaceX.
About Author
