Starlink has announced its compliance with a Brazilian court’s order to block access to Elon Musk’s social media platform, X, ceding from its earlier stance that it wouldn’t adhere until Brazilian officials unfroze its assets. Starlink stated in an update that while it has initiated legal proceedings in the Brazilian Supreme Court challenging the asset freeze, it has begun blocking X in Brazil in alignment with the order.
The decision follows an order from Supreme Court Judge Alexandre de Moraes, who froze Starlink’s finances, prohibiting the company from conducting financial transactions in Brazil. According to Ars Technica, de Moraes took this step on the basis that Starlink should cover over $3 million in fines levied against X, as both entities belong to the same economic group.
A Brazilian telecom agency representative noted that Starlink informed the regulator it would finalize the block within hours. Anatel, Brazil’s telecommunications regulator, later confirmed that Starlink had started to cut access to X in Brazil, as reported by Reuters.
The asset freeze and blocking order are part of a broader dispute involving X and the Brazilian government. The conflict began when Elon Musk threatened to defy a court order mandating the suspension of accounts alleged to spread disinformation, many of which were linked to supporters of former President Jair Bolsonaro. De Moraes’ actions to block X accounts have been controversial, and his rulings often face criticism for their aggressive nature. A New York Times profile depicted him as a judge unhesitant to employ severe measures, including jailing individuals without trial for social media posts.
Starlink argues that the financial restrictions are illegal and vows to continue its legal fight. Meanwhile, the blockage significantly affects Brazilian customers. “We continue to pursue all legal avenues,” Starlink said, reiterating its quest to overturn the asset freeze.