SpaceX’s Starlink satellite internet service has stepped in to offer free broadband access across Venezuela until February 3, 2026, aiming to maintain vital connectivity for citizens amid unprecedented political chaos triggered by a US military strike that captured former President Nicolás Maduro and his wife, Cilia Flores.
The announcement, which was posted on X by Starlink, stated, “Starlink is providing free broadband service to the people of Venezuela through February 3, ensuring continued connectivity.” Elon Musk, SpaceX CEO, reposted the message with strong endorsement: “In support of the people of Venezuela.”
Musk’s vocal celebration of regime change
Musk went beyond the connectivity support, openly praising the US action in additional posts. “It is heartwarming to see so many Venezuelans celebrating their country freed from a brutal tyrant,” he wrote.
In another message reshared with related content, Musk declared, “Congratulations, President Trump! This is a win for the world and a clear message to evil dictators everywhere.” These comments reflect Musk’s alignment with the Trump administration’s operation, which removed Maduro — long accused by the US of drug trafficking and authoritarian rule — on January 3, 2026.
Starlink’s role in the Venezuela situation
The free service follows a swift overnight US military raid on Caracas, involving strikes on military targets and the extraction of Maduro and Flores via helicopter to a US naval vessel. President Donald Trump described it as a “large-scale strike” and stated the US would oversee Venezuela during a transition period.
Venezuela’s Supreme Court subsequently appointed Vice President Delcy Rodríguez as acting president to ensure continuity, while international reactions ranged from condemnation (Russia, China, Brazil) to cautious support or calls for elections (EU, UK, Germany).
Starlink’s intervention prevents potential government-imposed blackouts or infrastructure disruptions, enabling access to uncensored information, communication, and emergency coordination. The satellite-based system bypasses traditional ground networks vulnerable to control or damage. The offer expires February 3, after which standard pricing may apply, pending regulatory and stability developments.
