Medvedev warns blocking Rassvet satellite network could trigger "full-scale space warfare"

Senior Russian official Dmitry Medvedev warned that blocking Russia's Rassvet satellite network, a move reportedly sought by Kyiv, could trigger what he described as "full-scale space warfare."

Medvedev said any attempt to block the network would effectively amount to its destruction, framing such an action as a significant escalation that would extend the conflict between Russia and Ukraine into space-based systems.

The warning reflects growing concern over the potential for terrestrial conflicts to spill into orbital infrastructure, as satellite networks increasingly underpin military communications, navigation and reconnaissance capabilities for both sides in the war.

Satellites as a new front

Details on the specific capabilities and purpose of the Rassvet network were not elaborated upon in Medvedev's remarks, though satellite systems have become an increasingly important component of military operations throughout the war in Ukraine.

Ukrainian officials have not publicly detailed the scope of any effort to disrupt or block Russian satellite infrastructure, and it remains unclear what specific actions prompted Medvedev's warning.

Medvedev, a former Russian president who now serves in a senior security role, has frequently issued pointed warnings regarding the potential for escalation in the conflict with Ukraine and its Western backers.