The Monocle Daily The latest Ukraine-Russia-US trilateral and the UAE as diplomatic host
10 snips
Feb 4, 2026 Dai Fujikura, composer discussing his Hokusai-inspired opera The Great Wave. Quentin Peel, journalist covering international politics and European affairs. Bertrand Oschelich, Middle East security analyst at RUSI. They tackle the Abu Dhabi Ukraine–Russia–US talks, Gulf diplomacy and the UAE as a diplomatic hub, Iran’s negotiating posture and regional security, plus musical choices behind a Hokusai opera.
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New York's Mixed Feelings After Election
- Bertrand described New York as both a jungle and perfectly disciplined like a clock.
- He recalled jubilant reactions to Mayor Mamdani's inauguration amid post-election anxiety.
Trilateral Talks Seem Deeply Imbalanced
- The Abu Dhabi trilateral talks look lopsided because the US team appears to favour Russia over Ukraine.
- Bertrand Oschelich and Quentin Peel doubt talks will force Russia to abandon its maximalist Donbass demands.
Russia Betting On Time And Weariness
- Russia appears to be playing for time, hoping Western resolve erodes and concessions follow.
- Bertrand Oschelich sees a likely long-term status-quo or managed frozen conflict rather than a decisive peace.