Ukrainian intelligence previously said it believed that Russia was using Starlink satellites in occupied areas of eastern Ukraine.
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Ukrainian the intelligence claims In Telegram Russia is buying Starlink satellite technology from Arab countries, reports news agency Reuters. The inquiry did not specify which countries are in question.
The information about Russian trade with Arab countries was based on an intercepted telephone conversation. In it, two Russian soldiers allegedly discuss the purchase of satellite terminals for $2,200.
“Russia is buying Arab communications technology, including Starlink terminals, to use in war,” the intelligence wrote on Telegram.
Already before suspect, that Russia might have traded with third countries to buy Starlink satellite technology. The technology cannot be bought or used in Russia, but Starlink devices can be bought in, for example, Finland.
Ukrainian intelligence posted its claims on Telegram, where it previously said it believed Russia was using Starlink satellites in occupied areas of eastern Ukraine.
The use of satellites would be significant from Russia's point of view, as they provide the region with an internet connection that is important for the battles.
Ukrainian forces fighting on the front lines have been able to communicate through chat applications without having to rely on telephone or radio networks, which would be easier to disrupt.
If Ukrainian intelligence is correct, this advantage has now been lost and the Russian internet connection also works in the occupied areas of eastern Ukraine.
SpaceX's managing director Elon Musk has denied that his company sold Starlink terminals to Russia. Starlink has commented on Ukraine's intelligence information by writing – also in X, owned by Musk – that the company does not cooperate with the Russian government or military in any way.
Read more: Russia uses SpaceX satellites, Ukrainian intelligence claims
Correction February 15, 2024 at 3:20 p.m.: The story has been clarified throughout regarding the names of Starlink devices. The Starlink terminal includes an antenna and a receiver.
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