Ukraine facing massive Russian attack on energy sector [Video]

Ukraine said Friday that it was fending off a new missile attack on its energy system, the latest in Russia’s campaign targeting the war-torn country’s power grid during the winter season.

Russia has escalated its strikes on Ukraine’s energy infrastructure, plunging hundreds of thousands into temporary blackouts as temperatures hit -5 degrees Celsius (23 Fahrenheit).

To fend off the strikes, Ukraine has been pleading for more air defence from its Western allies, amid fears support will soon be reduced when US president-elect Donald Trump takes office.

“The enemy continues its terror. Once again, the energy sector across Ukraine is under massive attack,” Energy Minister German Galushchenko said.

“Engineers are taking all the necessary measures to minimise the consequences,” he said after explosions were reported in a few regions.

The air raid alert was announced at 7:00 am (0500 GMT), with social media channels that monitor threats reporting cruise and hypersonic …