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French Regulator Orders Eutelsat to Cease Broadcasting Russian Channels

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French media regulator Arcom has directed satellite provider Eutelsat to stop broadcasting two Russian TV channels, STS and Channel 5, following an investigation that revealed Eutelsat’s commercial agreements were linked to a sanctioned entity. The channels are controlled by Russia’s National Media Group, which has been subject to European sanctions since December 2022.

The decision came after Arcom received multiple requests from non-governmental organizations calling for action against Eutelsat. The regulator stated that, due to the financial resources of National Media Group being frozen, the channels must be removed from distribution. Eutelsat confirmed it would comply with Arcom’s directive and cease broadcasting the channels within the stipulated three-day period.

Eutelsat clarified that National Media Group was not its direct client but that of an intermediary distributor. The channels are transmitted via Eutelsat’s capacity on the Eutelsat 36C satellite, which is operated by Russian Satellite Communications Company (RSCC).

Failure to comply could lead to sanctions, including fines. The regulator also alerted internet providers about non-compliant content, which was subsequently removed. Arcom continues to investigate other channels that may not adhere to sanctions.

Italy Tests Starlink Antennas in Embassies, No National Security Deal Yet

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Italy has begun testing Starlink antennas in four of its embassies globally, marking an early experiment in securing communications for government officials, but has not yet entered into any formal national security contract with Elon Musk’s Starlink. According to Luca Ciriani, the country’s Minister for Parliamentary Relations, the antennas are part of trials to test their functionality but are not currently active for official communication.

The right-wing government of Italy is exploring solutions to guarantee encrypted communications between diplomats and defense officials, particularly in high-risk regions. Starlink has emerged as one of the potential providers, but the government’s discussions with Musk’s company have raised concerns. Critics, particularly opposition politicians, have voiced strong opposition, questioning the prudence of allowing a foreign businessman with ties to U.S. President Donald Trump to handle a sensitive aspect of the nation’s security.

As of now, the antennas have been installed in embassies in Burkina Faso, Bangladesh, Lebanon, and Iran, but none have been used for active communication. The government confirmed that the antennas were only activated for testing purposes, with plans to suspend and potentially reactivate them when needed.

Ciriani emphasized that the antennas would not be used to transmit classified information and that Italy has not entrusted any critical infrastructure to Starlink. The trials have been conducted through third-party contracts, not a direct agreement between Italy and SpaceX, the parent company of Starlink.

Starlink, with a constellation of 6,700 satellites, is the leading player in the satellite communications industry. However, Eutelsat, a Franco-British competitor managing around 650 low Earth orbit satellites, is also in discussions with the Italian government. Reports suggest that Italy is considering a potential five-year contract worth 1.5 billion euros ($1.63 billion) for satellite communication services.

Italy’s League Party Supports Starlink Over Eutelsat for Secure Satellite Communications

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Italy’s co-ruling League party has urged the Italian government to choose U.S.-based Starlink over the French-led Eutelsat for the country’s secure satellite communications system. The League argues that Starlink offers more advanced technology, particularly for encrypted communications between government officials, diplomats, and defense personnel in high-risk areas.

Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni’s government is focused on securing a reliable satellite communications system, with a particular interest in ensuring safe communication channels for its operations in conflict zones. While Eutelsat is among the companies engaged in talks with the Italian government, along with Elon Musk’s Starlink, the League has made it clear that it supports the American company’s technology, citing its dominant position in the sector with 6,700 active satellites, compared to Eutelsat’s roughly 600.

“In the Italian interest, it would be odd to choose a French entity over a more technologically advanced and cutting-edge system like the American one,” the League stated, without directly naming either company. The League, a far-right political party, is part of the ruling coalition with Meloni’s Brothers of Italy and the moderate Forza Italia, and is a known supporter of U.S. President Donald Trump, a close adviser to Musk.

Eutelsat’s CEO, Eva Berneke, confirmed ongoing discussions with Italy, emphasizing the company’s ability to meet the country’s current needs for satellite communications as the EU’s IRIS² satellites face delays. While Starlink and Eutelsat are the primary providers with low-orbit constellations, Italy has yet to formally enter negotiations with either company, with sources from Meloni’s office indicating that any decision will follow full institutional procedures and transparency.

Opposition parties in Italy have raised concerns about entrusting such a crucial national security contract to Musk, especially given recent controversies surrounding Starlink’s role in Ukraine’s satellite communications. Despite these concerns, the League has made it clear that Italy’s national interests should be the primary consideration, avoiding any ideological biases in favor of its relationship with the U.S.

Musk responded to the League’s support on social media, expressing his gratitude.