On Thursday, Russian President Vladimir Putin cautioned about potential attacks on Kyiv using the new hypersonic 'Oreshnik' missile, after a massive assault on Ukraine's energy infrastructure that left a million people without power.

During a press conference in Astana, Kazakhstan, Putin indicated the missile could hit decision-making centers, heightening fears in Kyiv.

Russia fired over 90 missiles and around 100 drones in retaliation to Ukrainian strikes using Western missiles.

This assault marks an escalation in the nearly three-year conflict as both sides gear up ahead of President-elect Donald Trump’s upcoming inauguration.

Putin asserted that Oreshnik could have an impact similar to a nuclear strike and criticized Ukraine’s deployment of ATACMS missiles on Russian territory.

The recent attacks severely affected electricity supplies in Ukraine's western regions.

Ukrainian President Zelensky denounced the use of cluster munitions by Russia during the attack, calling it a 'despicable escalation' of Russian tactics.

In response, Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk described Putin’s threats as a sign of weakness.

With winter nearing, Ukraine anticipates further challenges after enduring 11 large-scale assaults on its energy network this year.

Tensions remain high as both sides prepare for potential changes in the geopolitical landscape following Trump’s inauguration.