The Day the Abu Dhabi Summit Receded

On February 1, Russian editorial focus shifted from immediate diplomatic resolution to a tactical delay. In the morning, state media prioritized territorial gains in Donetsk and Kharkiv while framing the suspension of Starlink services for Ukrainian drones as a decisive technical blow. Domestic outlets also highlighted the implementation of new social benefits and mortgage regulations effective February 1. By early afternoon, the primary narrative across state and independent media centered on the postponement of the Russia-US-Ukraine trilateral talks in Abu Dhabi. While initially expected to begin immediately, reports from TASS and RBC, citing Zelensky and Western sources, rescheduled the summit for February 4-5. Editors framed this delay alongside Zelensky’s new demand for a direct meeting with Putin to resolve territorial disputes. In the evening, headlines pivoted to international scandals and geopolitical maneuvering. Media outlets amplified declassified US documents alleging financial links between Jeffrey Epstein and Vladimir Putin, while state sources highlighted Donald Trump’s pressure on Iran and his criticisms of European diplomacy.