Zelensky discusses Starlink speed limits and Patriot missile supply with US congressmen

Discussion of satellite communication technical issues

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky took part in a video meeting with a bipartisan delegation comprising representatives from the US Senate and the House of Representatives. This was announced by the official press service of the head of state.

One of the key issues in the conversation was the limitation of the operating speeds of Starlink and Starshield services in various sections of the front line. Volodymyr Zelensky emphasised that Ukraine has yet to receive explanations regarding these restrictions.

«Ми досі не маємо пояснень щодо цього. На жаль, лише чуємо різні дивні історії» ("We still have no explanations for this. Unfortunately, we only hear various strange stories"), the President noted.

According to him, the reduction in the operating speed of these systems negatively affects front-line logistics, the effectiveness of Ukrainian mid-range strikes, and the defence's ability to counter "Shahed" drone attacks.

«Найскладніше збивати реактивні "шахеди". Саме тому нам потрібно, щоб Starlink і Starshield працювали на вищих швидкостях» ("It is hardest to shoot down jet-powered 'Shaheds'. That is why we need Starlink and Starshield to operate at higher speeds"), the head of state stressed.

Criticism of the early warning system

The meeting also addressed the fact that Russian attacks have become more brutal and treacherous. The President drew attention to the fact that Ukraine received no warning from partners about the first wave of ballistic shelling that took place last night.

«Я кажу передусім про американську систему раннього попередження про ракетні загрози. Це вже третій випадок за короткий період, коли ми не отримали такого попередження про балістичні ракети. І ми не отримали жодного чіткого пояснення від наших партнерів, наших стратегічних партнерів, від Вашингтона, чому це відбувається» ("I am speaking primarily about the American early warning system for missile threats. This is already the third case in a short period when we did not receive such a warning about ballistic missiles. And we have not received any clear explanation from our partners, our strategic partners, from Washington, as to why this is happening"), Volodymyr Zelensky underlined.

Strengthening air defence and diplomatic contacts

A separate item on the agenda was the strengthening of Ukraine's air defence. The parties discussed the need to accelerate the supply of interceptor missiles for Patriot systems under the PURL programme.

In addition, the President of Ukraine informed the delegation about his contacts with representatives of US President Donald Trump — Stephen Witkoff and Jared Kushner.

Zelensky emphasised that Russia does not plan to end the war and is preparing new attacks for the winter period. He added that Ukraine supported US President Donald Trump on the issue of an energy truce, but Russia continues to attack the country's energy infrastructure.