Caracas — SpaceX’s satellite internet service, Starlink, has initiated free broadband coverage across Venezuela to ensure connectivity during the nation’s ongoing political transition. The measure, which became active on Sunday, aims to prevent information blackouts following the US military operation that resulted in the capture of Nicolás Maduro.
Emergency Connectivity Measures
The free internet access will remain in effect through February 3, 2026. This initiative is designed to support the Venezuelan population as the country navigates a power vacuum and the establishment of a transitional government.
For existing Starlink customers in the region, the company has applied automatic service credits, requiring no action from users to benefit from the waiver. Additionally, Starlink has activated a “Roam” feature for all inactive kits in the country, allowing hardware owners to connect immediately without subscription hurdles. This response addresses concerns regarding potential infrastructure sabotage or censorship as the previous regime’s control structures are dismantled.
Support for Transition
Elon Musk, CEO of SpaceX, authorized the deployment to aid the flow of independent information. The decision aligns with international efforts to stabilize the region following “Operation Absolute Resolve,” the US-led mission that extracted Maduro and key regime figures from Caracas earlier this weekend.
With power grids and terrestrial internet services fluctuating in the capital, satellite connectivity has become a vital lifeline for citizens coordinating with family members and accessing news. The move also bolsters the communication capabilities of the interim leadership and pro-democracy figures, such as Nobel Peace Prize laureate María Corina Machado, who are working to restore institutional order.
Sources
- The Hill: Elon Musk’s Starlink to provide free internet in Venezuela
- Anadolu Agency: Starlink to provide free broadband in Venezuela
- The Street: Musk flipped Starlink’s free internet switch
- New York Times: Trump Announces Capture of Maduro
- NBC News: Timeline of US Strike and Maduro Capture
- BBC News: Venezuela Updates
