The Day of the Abu Dhabi Prisoner Exchange

On February 5, Russian editorial priorities shifted from nuclear anxiety to diplomatic breakthrough. The morning began with intense coverage of the expiration of the New START treaty, which state media framed as a consequence of American inaction. However, this narrative was quickly superseded by reports from the trilateral summit in Abu Dhabi. Early afternoon headlines focused on a major humanitarian success: a 157-for-157 prisoner exchange between Russia and Ukraine, mediated by U.S. envoy Steve Witkoff. By evening, the focus transitioned to strategic realignment. Editors prioritized Donald Trump’s proposal to replace the expired nuclear treaty with a new agreement rather than a simple extension, alongside the restoration of high-level military communication channels between Moscow and Washington. While state outlets emphasized the 'positive movement' toward a ceasefire and territorial demands regarding Donbas, independent sources highlighted domestic economic fragility, reporting on the depletion of the National Wealth Fund and a looming crisis in the restaurant and construction sectors.