Zelenskyy gives award to Elon Musk for Starlink's role in Ukraine

President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has awarded Elon Musk the Order of Merit, third class, in recognition of Starlink's crucial contribution to Ukraine's defense efforts. The satellite internet service provided by Musk's SpaceX has been vital for maintaining communications for Ukrainian military and civilian infrastructure following Russia's full-scale invasion in February 2022.

Starlink's rapid deployment allowed Ukraine to overcome disruptions to traditional communication networks, enabling soldiers to coordinate, essential services to operate, and citizens to stay informed. This award highlights the significant impact of private technology companies on geopolitical conflicts and the critical role of advanced communication systems in modern warfare.