(NewsNation) — Millions of Ukrainians are left in the dark after Russia launched a massive attack aimed at the country's power grid, amplifying fears that the Kremlin is trying to cripple the country's electricity and heating supplies just as the cold winter months hit.
This is Russia's second major aerial attack on Ukraine's energy infrastructure in less than two weeks. In the latest assault, it fired nearly 200 missiles and drones.
“Attacks on energy facilities are happening all over Ukraine,” Energy Minister Herman Halushchenko said on Facebook.
Cruise missiles with cluster munitions smashed into civilian targets in some regions, which Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy called “an insidious escalation.”
Russian President Vladimir Putin says this attack is in retaliation for Ukraine firing missiles — made by the United States — into Russia.
Putin also warned that if Ukraine fires any more, he would target Kyiv decision-making centers in the next attack, and maybe even use the new ballistic missile he calls the Oreshnik.
However, despite these tensions with the United States, Putin is seemingly more willing to work with Republican President-elect Donald Trump than current President Joe Biden, a Democrat.
While Putin was angered by Biden's decision to OK Ukraine's use of long-range missiles in Russia, he praised Trump, calling him a "clever and experienced man" and that he will "find a solution" to the conflict.
In Putin's opinion, he said, Trump is "not safe" after two assassination attempts earlier this year. However, he added the president-elect was "courageous" in the face of them.
Trump, as he deals with Putin, will have a hand from retired General Keith Kellogg, who he recently chose as his special envoy to Ukraine and Russia.
Biden, meanwhile, responded to Russia's power grid attack by saying it is "outrageous." He stressed the importance of supporting Ukraine's defense against Russian aggression.
"Russia continues to underestimate the bravery, resilience and determination of the Ukrainian people," Biden said. "The United States stands with more than 50 countries in support of Ukraine and its fight for freedom."
The Associated Press and Reuters contributed to this report.