Pentagon Watchdog Declines Senators’ Request to Investigate Starshield Disruptions

The Pentagon’s inspector general has declined a bipartisan request to investigate restrictions affecting Starshield and Starlink satellite services in Ukraine. In a letter dated October 27, Inspector General Platte Moring directed the senators’ questions about the restrictions and their effects to the US Air Force and Space Force. Moring said those services were better placed to address the issues and coordinate the Defense Department’s responses. Inspector general spokesperson Mollie Halpern said the office had considered the congressional request and concluded that the department should address the matters raised. “Should new information come to light, we may reconsider,” Halpern said. Senator Jeanne Shaheen, a New Hampshire Democrat, criticized the decision on October 28 and called for a full investigation. She said an independent accounting was needed to establish responsibility and prevent further disruptions. Shaheen and Republican Senator Thom Tillis led the original October 15 request, signed by 9 senators. Their letter asked whether US officials directed, approved or knew in advance about changes to intelligence sharing, warning capabilities or satellite services affecting Ukraine. It also sought answers on risks to US personnel, notice to Ukraine and affected Americans, compliance with government contracts and corrective steps. The senators requested preservation of relevant communications, contractual records, technical directives and correspondence, as well as confirmation of an investigation’s status and an initial briefing by November 1, 2026.