Elon Musk’s Starlink has received a minimum of $1 million from USAID over the last four years; however, Musk is now advocating for the agency’s closure, as reported by Forbes. This initiative, which has the support of former US President Donald Trump, has resulted in the suspension of billions in international aid and has raised concerns regarding the future of USAID-funded Starlink contracts that have facilitated internet access in conflict zones and developing nations.
Federal contract records reviewed by Forbes indicate that USAID has allocated up to $1 million for Starlink terminals, extending satellite internet services to Zimbabwe and South Africa, Musk’s country of origin. Nevertheless, the agency’s most significant agreement was a $3 million collaboration with SpaceX to deliver 5,000 Starlink terminals to Ukraine shortly after the onset of the war with Russia in 2022.
Musk has emphasized the significance of Starlink in supporting Ukraine’s defense, describing it as “the BACKBONE of Ukrainian military communications” at the front lines. Nevertheless, the Office of Inspector General of USAID initiated an investigation last year to assess the utilization of the terminals and to determine whether USAID effectively monitored their deployment.
Although SpaceX has profited from USAID’s funding, Musk has recently joined Trump in advocating for the agency’s dissolution. On Friday, Trump accused USAID of engaging in corruption and fraud, stating on Truth Social, “USAID IS DRIVING THE RADICAL LEFT CRAZY…THE CORRUPTION IS AT LEVELS RARELY SEEN BEFORE. CLOSE IT DOWN!”
Shortly thereafter, Elon Musk declared that his newly established Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) had been empowered to dismantle USAID. Over the weekend, DOGE personnel attempted to gain access to USAID offices to retrieve classified documents, while numerous USAID employees faced termination or furlough.
Trump’s recent actions have resulted in the suspension of billions in international aid, placing USAID-funded initiatives, such as Starlink deployments, in a state of uncertainty. The continuation, reassessment, or complete termination of the agency’s contracts with SpaceX remains ambiguous.
As USAID faces dismantlement, the prospects for US foreign aid, particularly its backing of Starlink in conflict-affected regions, are highly unpredictable.
Earlier today, Trump also issued a warning regarding potential cuts to aid for Jordan and Egypt, two nations that receive significant foreign assistance from the United States, should they refuse to accept displaced individuals from Gaza. This action underscores Trump’s readiness to utilize US funding to advance his administration’s political objectives, specifically aimed at the redevelopment of the Gaza Strip.
