Tariff Turbulence: U.S. Diplomacy and Starlink's Global Push

The United States has encouraged countries dealing with tariffs from Trump's administration to approve Elon Musk's satellite service, Starlink. State Department cables reveal efforts to promote regulatory approvals for Starlink without offering tariff reductions in return. Secretary of State Marco Rubio has played a significant role in this initiative.


Devdiscourse News Desk | Washington DC | Updated: 08-05-2025 00:07 IST | Created: 08-05-2025 00:07 IST
Tariff Turbulence: U.S. Diplomacy and Starlink's Global Push
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Recent reports indicate that the United States has actively promoted Elon Musk's Starlink satellite services to countries facing tariffs imposed by the Trump administration. According to the Washington Post, internal State Department cables suggest a concerted effort to eliminate regulatory hurdles for satellite companies, frequently highlighting Starlink by name.

While the documents do not reveal any direct quid pro quo involving tariff reductions for Starlink approvals, they do illustrate a clear directive from Secretary of State Marco Rubio. Rubio has reportedly encouraged officials to advocate for regulatory clearances, aiming to pave the way for Musk's company abroad.

This move comes amidst ongoing trade tensions under President Trump's policies, underscoring the strategic interests of the U.S. in promoting American technological ventures globally, particularly in the burgeoning satellite communications sector.

(With inputs from agencies.)

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