Starlink Complies with Brazilian Supreme Court Order Amid Controversy

Elon Musk's satellite internet firm, Starlink, has agreed to obey a Brazilian Supreme Court justice's directive to block access to the social media platform X, following an asset freeze. The company previously resisted, contesting the order as unconstitutional. Legal debates continue, particularly over Starlink's and X's corporate relationship.

Elon Musk's satellite-based internet service provider, Starlink, announced on Tuesday that it will comply with an order from Brazilian Supreme Court Justice Alexandre de Moraes to block access to the billionaire's social media platform, X.

Initially, Starlink informed the telecommunications regulator that it would defy the court order until the justice reversed his decision. However, in a statement posted on X, Starlink confirmed its compliance despite having its assets frozen. The company labeled the treatment as 'illegal' but emphasized its intent to pursue all legal avenues.

Justice de Moraes froze Starlink's accounts to compel the company to cover fines exceeding $3 million, arguing that Starlink and X belong to the same economic group. The order also included suspending X in Brazil for failing to appoint a local legal representative. The Supreme Court unanimously upheld the block, countering accusations of authoritarianism aimed at the justice.

(With inputs from agencies.)