CBS News | October 21, 2026 — CBS News contributor and Marine veteran Elliot Ackerman examines Ukraine’s reliance on Starlink following CBS reporting on restrictions to satellite access.
Ukraine’s Reliance on Starlink
Ackerman considers the national security implications of a critical military capability resting in private hands. The discussion raises questions about who controls satellite access and who ultimately makes decisions that can affect a country at war.
Government Agreements and Accountability
The conversation turns to government agreements with technology companies and the responsibilities that accompany their growing influence. Ackerman connects the Starlink debate to artificial intelligence, the Pentagon and the question of how powerful private firms are held accountable to the U.S. government.
Watch the CBS News Segment
The conversation runs 2 minutes, 8 seconds. Watch on Elliot Ackerman’s YouTube channel or view the original CBS News segment.