SpaceX’s Starlink said on X it will provide free internet service in Venezuela through Feb. 3 following power outages in areas including Caracas. Multiple news reports say outages followed U.S. military strikes and that U.S. forces captured President Nicolás Maduro and flew him to New York City; those claims remain unverified. Starlink gave no reason for the free service; Elon Musk wrote, "In support of the people of Venezuela." The company has not detailed where or how the temporary service will be deployed.
Starlink to Offer Free Internet in Venezuela Through Feb. 3 Amid Power Outages
Elon Musk’s Starlink to provide free internet to Venezuela
SpaceX-owned Starlink announced on X late Saturday that it will provide free internet service in Venezuela through Feb. 3.
The announcement comes after widespread power outages in parts of the country, including the capital Caracas, which multiple reports say followed U.S. military strikes. Starlink did not explain its reasoning for offering complimentary connectivity.
Several news outlets reported that early Saturday U.S. forces captured Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro and transported him to New York City to face federal drug charges. These reports remain subject to confirmation from official authorities; the details have not been independently verified at the time of this post.
Reaction and Context
Elon Musk, owner of SpaceX, responded to Starlink’s announcement on X with a one-line message: "In support of the people of Venezuela." Starlink has not specified how the free service will be deployed, which regions will be prioritized, or whether the timing is connected to the reported political events.
Temporary access to satellite internet could help residents stay connected during outages, enabling communication, access to news, and emergency coordination. We will update this story as Starlink, U.S. officials, or Venezuelan authorities release further verified information.
Note: Some details in early reports about the capture and transfer of President Maduro are still unconfirmed. Readers should treat those claims as reported and await official confirmation.
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