A Russian state television broadcast has reignited global concern after a presenter openly discussed the idea of using a nuclear weapon against Starlink satellites operated by Elon Musk. The remarks centered on disabling satellite-based internet services that have played a role in Ukraine’s communications during the ongoing war.
During the discussion, the presenter questioned why Starlink satellites should not be treated as legitimate military targets. He argued that a nuclear detonation in space could neutralize the network, while dismissing the consequences of Russia losing its own satellites in such an event.
Key points raised on Russian state TV
- A nuclear explosion in space was suggested as a way to disable Starlink
- Starlink satellites were framed as military targets due to Ukraine usage
- Potential loss of Russian satellites was downplayed
- The comments followed Starlink’s role in supporting Ukrainian communications
Starlink, operated by SpaceX, has been widely used in Ukraine to maintain internet access, including for military-related coordination. Russia’s focus on Starlink stems from its restricted access. Elon Musk has confirmed that SpaceX blocked Russia’s unauthorized use of Starlink, underscoring that the satellite network is not available to Moscow and explaining why it has become a strategic flashpoint in the conflict. Both Musk and SpaceX have stated that Starlink services are not sold to Russia and that measures are in place to prevent unauthorized use by Russian forces.
Context and past remarks
| Timeline | Details |
| October 2022 | Similar nuclear threats discussed on Russian TV |
| Earlier broadcast | Warning issued about global escalation from space attacks |
At the time, another participant cautioned that targeting assets in space could trigger wider conflict. The renewed discussion underscores ongoing fears about the militarization of space and the risks of escalation beyond Earth.
