According to The Associated Press, nine U.S. senators from both parties requested an independent investigation after Ukrainian officials reported that Starlink and its military-grade counterpart, Starshield, had experienced speed restrictions.
Ukrainian officials said the limitations interfered with their ability to operate systems used to intercept fast-moving Russian attack drones.
An October 19 Senate letter identified restrictions affecting devices traveling faster than 100 miles per hour.
The Pentagon's inspector general declined to open the requested investigation, saying the Air Force was better positioned to address the concerns.
Musk acknowledged that SpaceX had throttled Starlink services in Ukraine, accusing Ukrainian users of violating the company's terms of service.
Ukrainian officials denied those allegations.
However, Musk maintained that decisions affecting Starshield, the military-focused system, were controlled by the U.S. government.
President Trump denied ordering the restrictions, while Vice President JD Vance made remarks suggesting possible White House coordination.
The conflicting explanations have intensified questions about who authorized the changes and whether government officials were informed beforehand.
Senator Jeanne Shaheen called for independent accountability, arguing that the disruptions had serious consequences for Ukraine's ability to protect civilians.
The Pentagon watchdog said it could reconsider its decision if new information becomes available.
The bottom line: The central question remains unanswered: Who authorized the restrictions, and why? The controversy highlights the risks of relying on privately operated satellite infrastructure during military operations. For SpaceX, it also raises broader questions about government oversight, contractual authority and the responsibilities of commercial technology providers in wartime.