Starlink competition is ramping up in Ukraine

The Verge - Apr 4th, 2025
Open on The Verge

French satellite company Eutelsat, with support from the German government, has been providing crucial internet access to Ukraine via its OneWeb division. Eutelsat's CEO, Eva Berneke, disclosed that Germany has funded this initiative, though the amount remains undisclosed. Currently, Eutelsat operates fewer than a thousand terminals in Ukraine, compared to SpaceX's 50,000 Starlink terminals, which are largely funded by Poland and the US. However, Eutelsat plans to expand its presence, aiming to deploy an additional 5,000 to 10,000 terminals within weeks. The company is in talks with the EU's SpaceRISE consortium to build a secure satellite network, IRIS2, as part of its expansion strategy.

This development comes at a critical juncture as US-Ukraine relations are strained under the Elon Musk-supported Trump Administration. The European Commission’s defense chief, Andrius Kubilius, hinted at potential 'unexpected developments' and emphasized the need for alternative solutions to Starlink. The expansion of Eutelsat's internet service is significant, not only in terms of bolstering Ukraine's connectivity but also reflecting Europe's strategic interests in ensuring stable and secure satellite communication in the region, independent of American influence.

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RATING

7.2
Fair Story
Consider it well-founded

The news story provides a largely accurate and timely account of Eutelsat's role in providing satellite internet to Ukraine, supported by credible sources like Reuters and statements from Eutelsat's CEO. It effectively highlights the international cooperation involved, particularly Germany's funding and potential EU involvement. However, it lacks specific details on funding amounts and the strategic implications of the EU's SpaceRISE consortium, which could enhance understanding. The article presents a balanced view but could benefit from more diverse perspectives, particularly from Ukrainian stakeholders. While generally clear and engaging, some speculative and unclear elements, such as the mention of the US-Ukraine relationship, slightly detract from its clarity and transparency. Overall, the story addresses a topic of significant public interest with potential implications for international relations and technological infrastructure, making it a relevant and impactful piece.

RATING DETAILS

8
Accuracy

The news story is largely accurate, with its main claims supported by reliable sources such as Reuters and statements from Eutelsat’s CEO, Eva Berneke. The story accurately reports that Eutelsat, with German government funding, has been providing satellite internet in Ukraine, and that its OneWeb division operates low-orbiting satellites similar to SpaceX's Starlink. The claim about the number of terminals—less than a thousand from Eutelsat compared to Starlink’s 50,000—is consistent with available data. However, the story lacks specific funding amounts and more detailed information about the EU's involvement with Eutelsat, which are areas needing further verification. The mention of the US-Ukraine relationship under the "Elon Musk-backed Trump Administration" appears speculative, as it lacks concrete evidence or context, slightly affecting the story's precision.

7
Balance

The story presents a relatively balanced view by discussing both Eutelsat and SpaceX's roles in providing satellite internet to Ukraine. It highlights the contributions from different countries, such as Germany, Poland, and the US, which adds to the balance by recognizing international support. However, the article could benefit from more perspectives, particularly from Ukrainian officials or users of the satellite services, to provide a fuller picture of the impact and reception of these services. The narrative slightly leans towards showcasing Eutelsat's potential growth and expansion, which could suggest a subtle bias if not countered with more diverse viewpoints.

7
Clarity

The article is generally clear and well-structured, making it easy to follow the main points about Eutelsat's satellite internet services in Ukraine. The language is straightforward, and the narrative flows logically from one point to the next. However, some sections, such as the mention of the "Elon Musk-backed Trump Administration," introduce confusion due to their lack of context and clarity. Providing more background information on the geopolitical implications and the role of different stakeholders would enhance the overall clarity.

8
Source quality

The article primarily relies on reputable sources like Reuters and direct quotes from Eutelsat’s CEO, lending credibility to its claims. The inclusion of statements from Eutelsat spokesperson Joanna Darlington further enhances the reliability of the information. However, the story could improve by incorporating a wider range of sources, such as independent analysts or experts in satellite technology, to provide additional context and verify claims independently. The absence of these perspectives slightly limits the depth of the reporting.

6
Transparency

The article provides a clear narrative about Eutelsat's operations and funding in Ukraine, with attribution to specific individuals and organizations. However, it lacks transparency in certain areas, such as the specific amount of funding provided by Germany and the details of Eutelsat's discussions with the EU under the SpaceRISE consortium. These omissions leave readers without a full understanding of the financial and strategic context. Furthermore, the speculative nature of the US-Ukraine relationship claim is presented without sufficient background or evidence, which could mislead readers.

Sources

  1. https://kyivindependent.com/germany-finances-ukraines-use-of-starlink-alternative-eutelsat-reuters-reports/
  2. https://www.ccn.com/news/business/eutelsat-french-rival-elon-musks-starlink-stock-surge/
  3. https://www.euronews.com/next/2025/03/07/eutelsat-in-talks-to-increase-satellite-terminals-in-ukraine-amid-starlink-service-concern
  4. https://www.pravda.com.ua/eng/news/2025/04/4/7506098/
  5. https://unn.ua/en/news/germany-has-financed-ukraines-access-to-eutelsat-satellite-internet-an-alternative-to-starlink