Ukrainian counterintelligence has detained a military deserter in Kyiv accused of helping Russian forces access Starlink satellite communications by illegally registering terminals in Ukraine, the Security Service of Ukraine (SBU) said.
According to investigators, the suspect – a mobilized serviceman who deserted his unit in the Kharkiv region – was recruited via Telegram channels after going AWOL and relocating to Kyiv, where he was living in rented apartments.
Authorities say Russian intelligence handlers paid him to register Starlink terminals using personal data they provided. He also allegedly involved an acquaintance to register an additional device in her name, without informing her of its intended use.
The SBU said the suspect was preparing to expand the scheme by recruiting around 20 more individuals to help verify satellite communication terminals for Russian armed groups.
He was detained in the act at a Kyiv postal office while attempting to register another Starlink unit. Officials said all previously registered terminals have been blocked.
A search of his residence uncovered a mobile phone containing evidence of cooperation with Russian operatives, investigators added.
The suspect has been charged with high treason under martial law and faces life imprisonment with confiscation of property if convicted.
The arrests come as Ukraine steps up efforts to secure its Starlink network. Only verified terminals are allowed to operate, with a new registration system designed to block Russian forces from hijacking the satellites for drone strikes.
On Feb. 4, at Ukraine’s request, SpaceX disabled hundreds of grey- and black-market Starlink terminals in Russia and occupied territories – leaving Ukrainian forces unaffected while cutting off key Russian communications and drone operations.
Starlink shutdown has reportedly severely crippled Russian communications, with Russian troops struggling to coordinate, control drones, and react.