Kyiv: Ukrainian Defense Minister Mykhailo Fedorov announced on Monday that Ukraine is initiating a verification procedure for Starlink terminals located within the country. This procedure aims to ensure that only verified and registered terminals will remain operational, as part of a new resolution that introduces a 'white list' for these devices.

According to Anadolu Agency, Fedorov revealed on Telegram that this initiative, which is being carried out in cooperation with SpaceX, was prompted by reports of Starlink's misuse by Russian forces. The Defense Ministry took immediate action last month by contacting SpaceX following reports of Russian drones using Starlink connectivity over Ukrainian cities. Fedorov extended his gratitude to SpaceX President Gwynne Shotwell and Elon Musk for their prompt response to the issue.

The situation gained further attention when Poland's Deputy Prime Minister Radoslaw Sikorski publicly urged Elon Musk on the social media platform X to prevent Russians from utilizing Starlink to attack Ukrainian cities. Additionally, the US-based Institute for the Study of War reported that Russian forces are increasingly deploying Starlink-equipped drones to extend their strike capabilities, which poses a significant threat to Ukraine's infrastructure given the country's air defense vulnerabilities.

Despite the sanctions imposed by the US on Moscow, which prohibit the sale or use of Starlink in Russia due to the ongoing conflict, concerns about its misuse persist as the war approaches its fifth year.