Listen: Why can’t Europe offer Ukraine an alternative to Starlink?

Ukraine's reliance on SpaceX's Starlink and Starshield for internet connectivity highlights Europe's struggle to reduce dependence on American technology. Starlink provides widespread access through a network of low-orbit satellites, while Starshield offers secure connections for governments. Ukraine's internet infrastructure was damaged during the war, making SpaceX's solutions essential. European alternatives like OneWeb and the IRIS² project aim to compete but face challenges in scale and funding. The U.S. invests significantly more in space programs, and SpaceX's self-sufficient launch capabilities further enhance its advantage. China is also emerging as a player in the space sector.