March 1, 2014
The world is glued to their televisions as reports break out that after Russia invaded the Ukraine that it then began invading Georgia as well as several former USSR countries. Fearing a second Cold War or possible retaliation many US citizens begin stocking up on food essentials and while consumer goods rise, trading on the stock markets begins a steep decline.

March 2, 2014
0900
The US along with other UN countries impose sanctions on Russia and go on record as being opposed to their sudden invasions. 
1000
President Putin holds a press conference warning the US to lower the sanctions or reap destruction.
The US ignores the threats.
1159
NATO satellites begin tracking unidentified flying objects from the Gulf of Mexico.
1201
Objects detonate miles above the atmosphere in the Midwest. Seconds later the nuclear explosion triggers a chain-like reaction as an EMP wave begins to build.
1202 
The US power grid is completely offline from the electrical surge from the EMP wave.
Most cars newer than the early 1980's quit where they are. The interstate looks like a parking lot.