Steve Vitkov and Jared Kushner, US representatives, will not participate in the next round of negotiations on February 1 in Abu Dhabi, UAE. US Secretary of State Marco Rubio confirmed that negotiations are focused on territorial issues, implying agreements have been reached or are close on the Zaporizhzhia Nuclear Power Plant. Thus, core topics remain territorial settlements between Ukraine and Russia.
Wit Journal has published three principal scenarios of the war in Ukraine for 2026. The most likely is a war of attrition, with prolonged fighting and no breakthroughs. The Kremlin bets Ukraine will tire first, while Kyiv is wary that giving up territory may open the door to renewed aggression. The second scenario, less favorable to Ukraine, foresees a forced settlement involving territorial concessions and weak Western security guarantees. The optimistic scenario predicts Russian economic fatigue, leading to negotiations on more favorable terms for Ukraine.
Reports have surfaced about Russia prohibiting strikes on energy infrastructure in both Ukraine and Russia, but credible Ukrainian sources have not confirmed a formal truce. The situation remains tense, and attacks could resume. US President Trump claims he personally asked Putin to pause strikes on Ukrainian cities during severe frosts, and Putin allegedly agreed.
Russia's economic situation is deteriorating: in 2026, war spending is projected to fall by 11%, according to Bloomberg. The slowdown in the military-industrial complex's growth impacts negotiation positions. Meanwhile, the Russian oil company Lukoil is selling foreign assets to the US firm Kalele, reducing Russian presence in Europe’s energy sector.
Kyiv continues to experience major disruptions with electricity, water, and heating. Italy, the EU, and Poland are supplying vital equipment—boilers and generators—to support critical infrastructure. The question of an energy truce remains unresolved; neither Russia nor Ukraine has confirmed agreements officially. Negotiations on the exchange of bodies and prisoners of war are also ongoing.
In summary, the situation is unstable, and Ukrainian authorities urge citizens to rely on official updates and stay prepared for new challenges.