February 23, 2025
E A S Sarma, ex-Indian Secretary, urges tighter control over Starlink's Indian operations, stressing the need to prioritize spectrum for defense and ISRO over private entities. He highlights non-compliance with Supreme Court directives and raises concerns about foreign influence and strategic manipulation, referencing U.S. leverage over Ukraine's resources.
February 22, 2025
President Trump advocates for direct talks with Russia over Ukraine, raising concerns of sidelining European allies. Meanwhile, Germany reaffirms democratic values amid SPD's potential leadership shake-up.
Polish Minister Krzysztof Gawkowski has committed to maintaining Starlink services for Ukraine amidst US disconnection fears. Meanwhile, US-Ukraine tensions rise over a contentious minerals deal and Trump's criticism of Zelensky.
Starlink, Elon Musk's satellite internet service, is set to launch in India, posing a challenge to telecom giants Reliance Jio and Bharti Airtel. The move could transform internet access in remote areas, pending government approval.
Elon Musk's Starlink is rapidly expanding in Africa, now active in 19 countries since 2023. However, plans in South Africa face delays due to regulatory challenges and Musk's critique of land reforms.
Starlink has secured FCC approval for in-motion satellite service, enabling users to mount receivers on vehicles legally. This move caters to rural residents and digital nomads needing reliable internet, though users may face mounting costs due to necessary roof rack installations.
Ukraine's Center for Countering Disinformation confirms Starlink's continued operation amidst rumors of a shutdown. While concerns arose over U.S. pressure linked to resource access, Ukraine reassures its communication stability.
Donald Trump faces extortion accusations for allegedly tying Ukraine's access to Starlink to rare mineral concessions. The move, involving Elon Musk's Starlink, could severely impact Ukraine's connectivity and has prompted EU discussions on banning Tesla sales.
February 21, 2025
airBaltic becomes the first European airline to equip its Airbus A220-300 fleet with SpaceX's Starlink internet, enhancing onboard connectivity. The service, offering up to 500 Mbps, launched on February 21, 2025, and aims for full fleet coverage by the end of 2025, potentially setting a new standard for in-flight internet.
Starlink's India launch is delayed over security concerns and regulatory hurdles, despite plans to boost rural connectivity. The service is operational in over 100 countries, enhancing internet access in underserved regions.
Cambodian PM Hun Manet met SpaceX's Starlink MD Rebecca Hunter to explore tech investment opportunities, aligning with Cambodia's technological modernization goals. Starlink prioritizes Cambodia for 2025 investments, boosting bilateral ties.
Starlink's pivotal role in Ukraine's defense since 2022 has evolved with 100,000 terminals, largely funded by foreign contracts, supporting military operations. Despite concerns about potential service disruptions, Ukraine's military has diversified its communication strategies to prepare for any challenges.
Ontario Premier Doug Ford initially threatened to cancel a $100 million contract with Starlink due to a trade dispute, but retracted after tariffs were paused. The cancellation would have severely impacted rural areas, where Starlink is crucial for internet access.
Geopolitical tensions threaten the vital Starlink service for two million Canadians, crucial for rural areas with limited internet access. Premier Doug Ford warns of canceling a $100M deal, as Canada and the U.S. pause tariffs for 30 days.
SpaceX warns Starlink users of phishing scams seeking personal information via fake emails and texts. The company urges caution and highlights that official communication comes only from '@starlink.com'.
Ukraine braces for potential Starlink shutdown impact, with military expert Ivan Kyrychevskyi noting the search for alternatives since fall 2022. EU's IRIS2 and Kyivstar partnerships aim to strengthen Ukraine's satellite communications amid Starlink uncertainties.
C&L Aviation Services has installed a Starlink system on an Embraer ERJ 140 aircraft, enhancing in-flight connectivity. This move, supported by Aerospace Design & Compliance, marks a pivotal advance in aviation technology.
February 20, 2025
Starlink's Direct to Cell service now allows 4G LTE phones to send messages via satellites, expanding connectivity to remote areas. Launched after regulatory approvals, it operates in the U.S. and New Zealand, with plans to expand further in 2025.
airBaltic becomes the first European airline to integrate SpaceX's Starlink internet on its Airbus A220-300 fleet, tested successfully on February 20, 2025. Passengers experienced seamless connectivity, akin to home internet, without extra charges, as Starlink's low-Earth orbit satellites power this service.
Elon Musk's Starlink is nearing approval from IN-SPACe to launch broadband services in India, pending some security negotiations. The service must secure an operator's license and spectrum allocation, with Starlink committing to geolocate user terminals and establish a local network monitoring center.