Bessent Criticizes Zelensky for Blaming US on Starlink Issues

WHO:

NY Post - Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent criticized Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky.

Newsweek - Secretary of State Marco Rubio denied allegations regarding the White House's involvement.

WHAT:

NY Post - Zelensky publicly accused the Trump administration of throttling Ukraine's access to a military version of Starlink.

Newsweek - Rubio stated that the White House did not order the slowdown of satellite internet service used by Ukraine.

WHY:

NY Post - Bessent described Zelensky's accusations as "reckless" and emphasized the importance of Starlink for battlefield communications.

HOW:

NY Post - The throttling of Starlink is critical for Ukraine's military communications, as indicated by Zelensky's comments.

(UPDATED October 18, 2026 22:57 UTC)

Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent has criticized Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky for his accusations that the Trump administration restricted Ukraine's access to a military version of Starlink, calling those claims "reckless." In response, Secretary of State Marco Rubio denied any White House involvement in the alleged slowdown of the satellite internet service essential for Ukraine's military communications. Bessent emphasized the critical role of Starlink in supporting Ukraine on the battlefield, highlighting the importance of reliable communications in their ongoing efforts.