Nobel laureate and noted economist Paul Krugman has called for Starlink to be taken out of the control of SpaceX chief Elon Musk, arguing that the decisions of a single private individual should never carry the power to shape a nation’s security. Describing Starlink as no longer just an internet service but a critical military technology system in modern warfare, Krugman said governments, not businessmen, must hold authority over such a vital capability.
Krugman made the remarks in the wake of a Wall Street Journal report on the importance of Starlink services in the Russia-Ukraine war. He expressed concern that Musk’s decisions on when and how the Ukrainian military may use the service have a direct bearing on the course of the conflict. Such crucial calls, he said, belong within the purview of governments.
Starlink’s role in Ukraine dates back to 2022, when Russia’s invasion left the country’s communication networks severely disrupted. The service provided internet connectivity to hospitals, government offices and power stations. The Ukrainian military later began using the system to operate drones and exchange information on the battlefield, making it a key pillar of the country’s defence.
Musk, for his part, maintains that Starlink is not permitted to be used for offensive attacks. He has accused the Ukrainian military of violating the terms of service by using it in strikes. He has also clarified that Starlink, offered for civilian use, and Starshield, designed for military purposes, are separate services, and that the US government controls the use of Starshield.
Krugman observed that Ukraine’s heavy dependence on Starlink has become both a strength and a vulnerability for the country. Leaving decision-making power over a system critical to national security in the hands of one individual is inappropriate, he said, urging governments to step in.