US democrats probe Elon Musk after Ukraine accuses SpaceX of letting Russia use its satellites

US lawmakers have initiated an inquiry into Elon Musk’s SpaceX following claims from Ukraine that Russian troops have deployed the company’s Starlink satellite service and have been using it in the frontlines in their ongoing conflict, as reported by the Washington Post on Thursday.

According to the newspaper, US Representatives Jamie Raskin (D-Maryland) and Robert Garcia (D-California) sent a letter on Wednesday urging SpaceX to disclose any complaints regarding the potential illegal use of Starlink terminals.

The Democratic lawmakers expressed concern over Ukrainian allegations that Russian forces had deployed Starlink terminals, potentially violating US sanctions laws.

The lawmakers have cautioned SpaceX’s president, Gwynne Shotwell, warning her about the use of Starlink by Russia. They also stated how Russia accessing Starlink poses a serious threat to Ukrainian security and loves nad how it compromises the national security of the US"

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“We are concerned that you may not have appropriate guardrails and policies in place,” Raskin and Garcia wrote.

They also announced intentions to engage with the Pentagon and other agencies, emphasizing the importance of preventing trade that could empower the Russian military.

Previously, Ukraine’s Main Directorate of Intelligence (GUR) claimed that Russian troops increasingly utilized Starlink services on the battlefield, citing intercepted conversations between Russian military personnel.

Elon Musk, CEO of SpaceX, denied the allegations, stating that “no Starlinks have been sold directly or indirectly to Russia.” The Kremlin similarly denied any Russian military orders of Starlink terminals, citing a lack of certification in the country.

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Musk donated approximately 20,000 Starlink terminals to Ukraine shortly after Russia’s military operation began in February 2022. These terminals are used by Ukrainian troops to operate drones along the front line.

However, Musk revealed last year that he declined a Ukrainian request to activate the Starlink service in Crimea. Despite Kiev’s request, SpaceX chose not to violate regulations without direct orders from US leadership, Musk explained at the time. While expressing support for Ukraine, Musk reiterated his preference for a peaceful resolution to the conflict.

According to the Post, the US Defense Department purchased up to 500 new Starlink terminals for Ukraine in June 2023, as mentioned in the House Democrats’ letter.