In June 2019, the New York Times reported that the US launched cyberattacks into the Russian power grid. According to the newspaper, US military hackers used American computer code to target the grid as a response to the Kremlin’s disinformation campaign, hacking attempts during the 2018 midterm elections and suspicions of Russia hacking the energy sector. The story was condemned by President Trump, who said it was fake news, and experts, while the Kremlin said it was a possibility. According to the 2018 National Defence Authorisation Act, government hackers are permitted to carry out “clandestine military activities” to protect the country and its interests.