The US threatens the EU with “devastating” retaliation if Brussels limits SpaceX’s access to the radio spectrum

US Ambassador to the European Union Andrew Puzder warned that European companies could face “devastating” retaliation from Washington if Brussels adopts measures limiting US companies’ access to certain segments of the European market.

The dispute concerns a European Commission proposal to reserve part of the radio spectrum used to connect mobile phones directly to satellites for European companies. The measure would restrict access for some US and Chinese companies, including SpaceX, Elon Musk’s company.

Puzder told the Financial Times that European companies should be aware of the potential consequences, given the importance of the US market to them. He argued that Europe cannot increase its competitiveness by reducing the competitiveness of US companies.

SpaceX criticized the proposal, warning that it could affect communications in Ukraine, where Starlink plays an important role. In October, Ukrainian officials reported restrictions on Starlink and Starshield services amid tensions between Kyiv and the Trump administration. Elon Musk said that Starshield systems are controlled by the US government, while Secretary of State Marco Rubio denied any involvement by the White House. The disagreements are taking place as the EU seeks to reduce its dependence on US technology and infrastructure controlled by foreign companies.