Russia launches 26 satellites in bid to rival SpaceX network

Elon Musk currently operates more than 5,000 satellites in orbit, a figure cited by Russian President Vladimir Putin during a recent address. The Russian leader described Musk as a true genius while acknowledging that his nation is still in the early stages of building its own orbital network. This comment came as Russia works to develop the Rassvet constellation, a domestic alternative to the Starlink system.

The diplomatic tension surrounding satellite technology escalated in early October. A military variant of the service, known as Starshield, was restricted overnight. This interruption prevented Ukraine from launching medium drone attacks and weakened some anti-drone defenses. Musk initially denied ordering the throttling of the connection. He later stated that he had closed a loophole that allowed the civilian Starlink network to be used for military purposes. Zelenskyy confirmed that operations were restored after roughly ten days of limitation.

The current operational status of the US network is substantial. Estimates place the number of active SpaceX satellites at approximately 10,000. These units provide high-speed internet that has become central to recent diplomatic exchanges between the United States, Ukraine, and Musk. The billionaire's control over this infrastructure has raised questions about his influence on the White House and his impact on the war effort in Ukraine.

Putin spoke at a summit with African leaders in Moscow. He emphasized the need for coordination with American partners to maintain discipline in orbit. "We are in close contact with our American partners, including Mr Musk, because it is very important, in orbit, not to get in each other's way and to maintain a certain level of discipline and order," he said. The Russian president noted that Starlink does not function inside Russia and that its use within Ukrainian territory had been restricted earlier in the year.

Moscow is proceeding with its own satellite system. The Rassvet constellation currently has an estimated 26 working satellites in operation. This number indicates a limited capacity compared to the thousands of units deployed by SpaceX. The Russian government views this infrastructure as essential for military communications, particularly for operations against Ukraine.

Political developments are expected to influence the next steps in the conflict. Donald Trump, who has an ally in Musk, agreed to purchase diesel from Moscow in early October. This move aimed to lower oil prices before the US midterm elections scheduled for next Tuesday. Volodymyr Zelenskyy indicated that trilateral peace talks involving Ukraine, Russia, and the US could occur between November 6 and November 10 in Abu Dhabi. He expressed confidence that the American side would be ready to respond after the elections.

Zelenskyy held a press conference in The Hague on Wednesday. He spoke with Dutch Prime Minister Rob Jetten about the upcoming discussions. The Ukrainian leader stated that he was waiting for the American side to prepare its answers following the domestic vote. He also mentioned a conversation with UK Prime Minister Andy Burnham regarding new financial commitments from Britain.

The United Kingdom announced an additional £10 billion in financing for Ukraine over the next three years. This package includes an immediate £500 million for air defense systems. UK Chancellor John Healey noted that he and the prime minister called Zelenskyy to discuss the budget commitments. He reported that the Ukrainian president responded, "You've made my day." The Dutch government simultaneously pledged €500 million in military support for the winter, along with €1.2 billion in non-military aid for utility repairs.

The military situation on the ground remains intense. Russian forces have failed to make significant progress on the eastern frontlines. In response, Moscow has increased attacks on Kyiv. Zelenskyy reported that Russia launched more than 100 ballistic missiles at the capital and surrounding areas since the middle of October. These strikes targeted power plants and other key infrastructure, aiming to create a humanitarian crisis as the conflict enters a difficult winter season.