Volodymyr Zelenskyy claims China will transfer a Starlink-alternative to Moscow that could allow Russia to 'dominate the skies over Ukraine'

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has alleged that China is providing Russia with technology to develop a satellite network similar to Starlink. According to Zelenskyy, this technology could grant Moscow a significant tactical advantage in the ongoing conflict by enabling real-time targeting capabilities. The system in question is reportedly the 'Rassvet' network, developed by the Russian firm Bureau 1440. While the project has faced delays and technical hurdles—with only 32 of the planned 156 satellites launched for 2026—Zelenskyy warns that Chinese support could accelerate its operational readiness. Although no specific Chinese companies have been named, experts suggest that Russian satellite development relies heavily on imported components. Kyiv has urged Western allies to impose sanctions on the entities involved in the project, as the potential for a sovereign, low-earth orbit communication network could fundamentally alter the aerial landscape of the war.