Russian propagandists have called for a nuclear strike in space after Elon Musk cut off Starlink satellite internet terminals used by Russian forces in Ukraine. The move has been described as a "catastrophe" for Moscow, disrupting frontline assaults, drone strikes, and communications.
Musk acted on a request from Ukraine's defence minister Mykhaylo Fedorov to deprive Russia of Starlink access while continuing to allow its use by Kyiv's forces. Russian war channels admitted the loss is a huge setback, with one outlet stating that 70% of drones, trench and assault groups, as well as tanks and artillery, have "gone blind".
Vladimir Solovyov, a Kremlin propagandist, demanded a nuclear strike on SpaceX satellites, saying: "I do not understand why Elon Musk’s satellites are not a legitimate target for us? One detonation of nuclear weapons in space solves this problem quite seriously." However, such an attack would also destroy all Russian satellites.
The loss of Starlink comes as Russia faces a looming economic crisis, with oil revenues down 50% and inflation spiralling. Western moves to detain Russian "shadow fleet" oil tankers pose a further threat. US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent said Donald Trump's sanctions on Russian oil giants forced Putin to join peace talks with Ukraine.
Meanwhile, Ukraine has unveiled its new domestically-produced FP-9 ballistic missile, capable of hitting Moscow and St. Petersburg with 800kg warheads. It could be deployed this month. The US has vowed to continue supplying weapons to Ukraine until a peace agreement is signed.
