Janice R. Andrews
In a significant development amid the ongoing Russia-Ukraine war, US aerospace company Maxar Technologies has blocked Ukraine’s access to its satellite imagery. This move comes as the administration of US President Donald Trump suspended intelligence sharing with Kyiv, further straining relations between the two nations. The decision has raised concerns about Ukraine’s ability to monitor Russian troop movements and assess damage from attacks, as the conflict enters a critical phase.
Maxar Technologies Halts Satellite Imagery Access
Maxar Technologies, a leading provider of commercial satellite imagery, confirmed on Friday that it had disabled Ukraine’s access to its services. The company cited its contracts with the US government, including the Global Enhanced GEOINT Delivery (GEGD) program, which provides access to commercial satellite imagery for allied nations.
“The US government has decided to temporarily suspend Ukrainian accounts in GEGD,” Maxar stated, directing further inquiries to the US National Geospatial-Intelligence Agency (NGA). The NGA confirmed the suspension but did not provide additional details.
Maxar’s satellite imagery has been instrumental for Ukraine in pinpointing Russian troop movements, assessing battlefield damage, and planning military operations. The suspension of access is seen as a significant blow to Ukraine’s defense capabilities, particularly as Russian forces intensify their attacks on Ukrainian energy infrastructure.
Zelenskyy Calls for Truce Amid Escalating Attacks
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has called for a truce in the air and at sea following a massive Russian attack overnight targeting Ukraine’s energy infrastructure. In a Telegram post, Zelenskyy emphasized the need to force Russia to halt its attacks as a first step toward peace.
“The first steps to establishing real peace should be forcing the sole source of this war, Russia, to stop such attacks,” Zelenskyy wrote. He reiterated Ukraine’s readiness to pursue peace but stressed that Russia must cease its aggression.
The overnight attacks reportedly involved 58 missiles and 194 drones, with Ukrainian forces downing 34 missiles and 100 drones. The strikes targeted gas and energy facilities, further straining Ukraine’s already fragile energy grid.
Trump’s Controversial Stance on Russia and Ukraine
US President Donald Trump has drawn criticism for his comments suggesting that it is “easier” to work with Russia than Ukraine. Speaking to reporters, Trump said, “I’m finding it more difficult frankly to deal with Ukraine, and they don’t have the cards. It may be easier dealing with Russia.”
Trump also expressed understanding for Russian President Vladimir Putin’s actions, stating, “I actually think he’s doing what anybody in that position would be doing right now.” These remarks have sparked outrage among Ukrainian officials and Western allies, who view them as undermining support for Kyiv.
Trump has also paused US military and intelligence aid to Ukraine, pressuring Zelenskyy to agree to a ceasefire with Russia. He warned that Ukraine risks losing all US involvement if it refuses to settle. “I don’t know that they want to settle. If they don’t want to settle, we’re out of there because we want them to settle. I’m doing it to stop death,” Trump said.
European Nations Urged to Step Up Support
With the US scaling back its support for Ukraine, European nations and Canada are being urged to fill the gap. Retired British General Sir Richard Shirreff, former deputy commander of NATO’s European Command, emphasized the need for immediate action.
“European nations and Canada have just got to ramp up immediately to fill the gap. And this means taking risk. It means giving immediate money to the Ukrainians,” Shirreff told DW. He criticized Europe for its reliance on US security protection, stating, “We cannot rely on America as an ally.”
Shirreff’s comments reflect growing concerns in Europe about the potential for Russia to expand its aggression beyond Ukraine. European leaders have begun discussions on bolstering their defense capabilities, but the process has been slow and fraught with disagreements.
Ukrainian Forces Face Challenges in Kursk
Open-source maps indicate that Ukrainian forces in Russia’s Kursk region are nearly encircled by Russian troops. The situation has deteriorated rapidly in recent days, with supply lines cut off and Russian forces advancing. Military analysts warn that Ukrainian troops may soon be forced to retreat.
“The situation for Ukraine is very bad,” said Pasi Paroinen, a military analyst with the Finland-based Black Bird Group. “Now there is not much left until Ukrainian forces will either be encircled or forced to withdraw.”
Neither Ukraine nor Russia has officially confirmed the details of the situation in Kursk, but the developments highlight the challenges faced by Ukrainian forces as they battle a larger and better-equipped Russian military.
Zelenskyy’s Popularity Rises Amid US Criticism
Despite the challenges, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy’s approval rating has risen by 10 percentage points, according to a recent poll by the Kyiv International Institute of Sociology (KIIS). Around 67% of Ukrainians now trust Zelenskyy, up from 57% a month earlier.
The increase in support follows US President Donald Trump’s criticism of Zelenskyy, including calling him a “dictator” for postponing elections. Many Ukrainians view Trump’s attacks as an assault on their nation as a whole, leading to a rallying effect around Zelenskyy.
“At least for now, we are witnessing a process of unification of society against the backdrop of new challenges facing Ukraine,” said Anton Grushetsky, executive director of KIIS.
Russia Accuses EU of Confrontational Rhetoric
The Kremlin has accused the European Union of adopting “confrontational rhetoric” after EU leaders agreed to boost the bloc’s defenses at a recent summit. Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov criticized the EU for positioning Russia as the “main enemy” and warned of potential retaliatory measures.
“This, of course, could potentially be a topic of deep concern for us, and there could be a need to take appropriate measures in response to ensure our security,” Peskov said.
The EU’s discussions on defense come amid fears that Russia, emboldened by its war in Ukraine, could target other European nations. The bloc’s leaders have pledged to increase military spending and support for Ukraine, but divisions remain over how to achieve these goals.
Ukraine Deploys French Mirage Jets for First Time
In a significant development, Ukraine’s air force deployed French Mirage 2000-5 fighter jets for the first time to repel Russian attacks. The jets, delivered to Ukraine last month, have been adapted to counter Russian electronic warfare tactics.
Ukrainian pilots received months of training in France to operate the aircraft, which played a crucial role in downing 34 of 58 missiles and 100 of 194 drones launched by Russia overnight. The strikes targeted energy infrastructure, further straining Ukraine’s ability to provide power and heating to its citizens.
China Calls for Peace in Ukraine
Amid the escalating conflict, China has called for a “fair, lasting, and binding peace agreement” in Ukraine. Speaking at an annual press conference, Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi emphasized Beijing’s willingness to play a constructive role in resolving the crisis.
“China is willing to cooperate with the international community in accordance with the wishes of relevant parties to achieve a final resolution of the crisis and lasting peace,” Wang said. However, China has refused to criticize Russia or cut its economic support for Moscow, drawing criticism from Western nations.
Conclusion
The suspension of satellite imagery access by Maxar Technologies and the pause in US military aid have left Ukraine in a precarious position as it battles Russian aggression. With European nations urged to step up their support, the coming weeks will be critical in determining the course of the conflict.
As Ukraine faces mounting challenges on the battlefield and in securing international support, the resilience of its people and leadership remains a beacon of hope. However, the path to peace remains uncertain, with Russia showing no signs of relenting in its campaign to destabilize Ukraine. The international community must act decisively to prevent further escalation and support Ukraine in its fight for sovereignty and freedom.
