British Defense Secretary Wes Streeting urged the United States to reaffirm its support for Ukraine during his visit to Washington, seeking to ease tensions triggered by the recent decision to restrict Starlink satellite internet services used by the Ukrainian military. Streeting emphasized that sustained assistance benefits both Kyiv and Washington’s long-term strategic and economic interests.
Speaking at the Center for Strategic and International Studies before a meeting with US counterpart Pete Hegseth, Streeting acknowledged challenges following the US government’s abrupt limitation on Starlink usage for Ukraine’s drones, which has disrupted military communications and operations on the front line.
Starlink Restrictions Impact Ukrainian Military Operations
The US decision to throttle Starlink terminals on Ukrainian drones effectively slowed drone speeds to under 100 mph, hindering mid-strike attacks against Russian-occupied territories and raising concerns about Ukraine’s ability to counter new Russian air attacks. This move reportedly occurred without prior warning and has been seen as detrimental to Kyiv’s military capabilities.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy expressed feelings of personal betrayal following the restrictions. Further reports indicate that the US has conditioned continued intelligence sharing, crucial for missile defense, on Ukraine ceasing its assaults on Russian oil refineries—a tactic aimed at damaging the Russian economy.
Streeting Appeals for Renewed US Commitment
Addressing the US audience, Streeting stressed the importance of supporting Ukraine as a matter of principle and national self-interest. He highlighted that Ukrainians are fighting to preserve the right to self-determination, a core American value. He added that if aggression is rewarded and sovereignty disregarded, consequences will extend beyond Ukraine and Europe.
Streeting also underscored the economic potential of reinforcing the defense-industrial relationship between the US and Ukraine, framing support as a substantial business opportunity for America.
Broader US-UK Discussions amid Regional Tensions
Beyond Ukraine, Streeting’s talks with Hegseth were expected to address security concerns related to US military bases in the UK, following threats from Iran prompting the withdrawal of US bombers from RAF Fairford. The meeting also anticipated discussions on cooperative efforts to assist Saudi Arabia amid attacks by Yemen’s Houthi forces.
Amid the diplomatic efforts, UK Prime Minister Andy Burnham reaffirmed the United Kingdom’s commitment to stand by Ukraine during a meeting with Zelenskyy in London.
