Putin cites Ukraine's actions to justify Russian strikes on energy infrastructure

Russian President Vladimir Putin has admitted that the Russian army is striking at Ukraine's energy infrastructure.

However, he said those who attacked the Crimean bridge were the first to start, Kommersant reports.

"Yes, we are doing that. But who started it? Who hit the Crimean bridge, who blew up the power line from the Kursk nuclear power plant, who didn't bring water to Donetsk? The failure to supply water to a city of millions is an act of genocide. Nobody has said a word about it anywhere. There is total silence. As soon as we make a move or do something in response, there is noise, clamour and a crackle for the whole universe," the president said.