Space Exploration Technologies Corp. (SpaceX)

Business in Russia

Russian companies continue to import Starlink systems, which the Russian Armed Forces have made extensive use of in the war in Ukraine. As the Nordsint investigative project found, systems that fall under the official ban on sale to Russia have appeared in state databases. In some cases, the listed manufacturer is not U.S.-based SpaceX, but companies from third countries. ₴₴₴₴₴₴₴₴₴ SpaceX and Ukraine have worked together to disable unauthorized Starlink terminals operating inside the country. This is an important update after news came last month that Russia continues to use the service to control its long-range drones that attack targets well within Ukraine’s borders. Russian Senator and billionaire Suleiman Kerimov held 1% stake in SpaceX while he was sanctioned. The Russian government has introduced a ban on the import of foreign satellite communication equipment, including devices such as Starlink terminals, as part of tighter controls over communications infrastructure.

Decision trail

Decision date 02/07/2024 · Reference ↗

SpaceX delivers Russian, Native American women to space station. Starlink terminals on sale in Russia, although system does not work on country’s territory. The Russian military began using the Starlink satellite communication system at the front. Musk `denies selling Starlink terminals to Russia after Kyiv alleges their use in occupied areas. The Russians have Starlink at the front: the USA has launched an investigation against Elon Musk's company. Russian Presidential Envoy for International Cooperation Kirill Dmitriev has said that Russia is ready to supply a small nuclear power plant for the SpaceX mission to Mars.

Status history since 2022

1. 03/08/2026 — operating · Imported from KSE LeaveRussia

Exposure profile