A coalition of Ukrainian American organizations is calling on the Federal Communications Commission to deny SpaceX’s application to launch more Starlink satellites due to concerns over Elon Musk’s connections with Russian President Vladimir Putin and his involvement with President-elect Donald Trump’s advisory group. The Ukrainian Congress Committee of America has filed a petition citing environmental worries and fears that Musk may be aligning with Putin. The committee is concerned about conflicts of interest between Musk’s business ventures and his new advisory role, and worries that his satellite network could benefit Russia.
The committee, known as DOGE, believes that Musk’s ambiguous position in Trump’s ear could lead to regulatory favoritism towards SpaceX. They are concerned that Musk’s proposed budget cuts could impact agencies he often disagrees with and worry that he may use his influence to benefit his companies. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has used Starlink for communications following Russia’s invasion, but some question Musk’s support for Ukraine after he proposed a peace plan seen as pro-Russian.
The Ukrainian coalition’s efforts to halt SpaceX’s satellite launch application have not received a response from the company. SpaceX aims to expand its satellite network globally, but faces opposition from Ukrainian advocacy groups. Musk has denied allegations that his satellites are being used by Russian fighters and has not commented on DOGE’s concerns. The situation highlights the complexities of Musk’s business ventures, political connections, and potential impact on foreign policy in the context of the ongoing conflict in Ukraine.
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