Poland, which funds Ukraine’s Starlink internet services, may seek other providers if Elon Musk’s SpaceX proves unreliable, Foreign Minister Radoslaw Sikorski warned on Sunday. The statement followed Musk’s provocative X post, where he speculated about disabling Starlink—vital for Ukraine’s military and civilian connectivity—claiming Ukraine’s front line would collapse without it. Musk, a key figure in U.S. President Donald Trump’s administration, expressed frustration over the ongoing war, now in its fourth year since Russia’s 2022 invasion, calling it a “stalemate” Ukraine will “inevitably lose.”

Starlink’s role in Ukraine has been critical, supported by Poland’s Digitization Ministry at an annual cost of $50 million. Sikorski criticized the ethics of threatening a war victim, adding that Poland would explore alternatives if SpaceX falters. This comes as U.S. negotiators, eyeing Ukraine’s critical minerals, have reportedly considered cutting Kyiv’s Starlink access as leverage, according to Reuters sources from February. The U.S. has already limited Ukraine’s access to satellite imagery and paused intelligence sharing, aligning with Trump’s push for a swift resolution to the conflict.

The uncertainty has sparked market speculation. Shares in Franco-British satellite operator Eutelsat surged 380% in the week ending March 7, 2025, amid rumors it could replace Starlink. Poland reaffirmed its commitment to funding Ukraine’s Starlink in February, despite U.S. pressure, highlighting its strategic support for Kyiv.

Musk’s comments underscore tensions between his influence in U.S. policy and Poland’s role as a steadfast ally to Ukraine. As of March 9, 2025, the situation remains fluid, with Poland weighing its options and the war’s outcome hanging in the balance. If SpaceX’s reliability wavers, the shift to alternatives like Eutelsat could reshape Ukraine’s digital lifeline—and the geopolitics surrounding it.