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Poland Criticizes Elon Musk Over Starlink in Ukraine While Bolstering Its Military Preparedness

Poland's leaders clash with Elon Musk and U.S. officials over Starlink's role in Ukraine as the country announces sweeping defense measures.

A Starlink terminal near the Ukrainian front line in Robotyne, east Ukraine in 2024.
Elon Musk, Chief Executive Officer, Tesla, SpaceX and X (previously known as Twitter) departs a meeting with Senate Republicans outside the Senate Chamber of the Capitol Building in Washington, DC on Wednesday March 5, 2025.
Kostiantyn Korsun, cyber security expert on Monday March 10 , 2025 in Kyiv, Ukraine.
Elon Musk departs the Capitol following a meeting with Senate Republicans, in Washington, Wednesday, March 5, 2025.

Overview

  • Polish Foreign Minister Radosław Sikorski criticized Elon Musk for suggesting Ukraine's frontline would collapse without Starlink, highlighting Poland's $50 million annual contribution to the service.
  • Elon Musk dismissed Sikorski's comments, calling him a 'small man,' while U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio defended Starlink's critical role in Ukraine's defense.
  • Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk urged respect among allies and announced a voluntary military training program for all adult Poles, modeled on Switzerland's system, to strengthen national defense.
  • Poland plans to spend 4.7% of its GDP on defense in 2025 and is exploring withdrawing from international treaties banning certain weapons to enhance its military capabilities.
  • Despite tensions with the U.S., Poland remains committed to NATO and is advocating for a stronger, self-reliant European defense system, including discussions on nuclear deterrence with France.