Press Review - Russia's 'death economy' and Ukrainian resistance: Four years of war in Ukraine
France 24 Europe
by Emily BOYLEFebruary 24, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
The fourth anniversary of the war in Ukraine has dominated European media, with outlets like *Libération* and *Le Figaro* highlighting Ukrainian resistance and Russia's economic tactics. France's *La Croix* focuses on Russia's "death economy," a term used to describe its strained financial situation amid sanctions and the ongoing conflict. Meanwhile, cartoons from *The Guardian* and *L'Opinion* offer visual commentary,depicting President Zelensky's struggle for peace, Putin's isolation in his bunker, and Trump's silence on the global stage.
Elsewhere, British media have turned their attention to former UK ambassador Peter Mandelson, who was arrested over his alleged ties to Jeffrey Epstein. *The Daily Mirror* and *Daily Mail* report on his release on bail, while *Mediapart* delves into Epstein's connections with French banker Ariane de Rothschild. This story adds another layer to the ongoing revelations about Epstein's influence.
In the U.S., tensions have risen over Donald Trump's comments mocking the U.S. women's hockey team, which won Olympic gold. According to *People Magazine*, Trump's remarks sparked widespread criticism online, leading the team to decline his invitation to attend the State of the Union address. This incident highlights ongoing debates about gender equality and public backlash against political figures.
Finally, Paris is set for a major transformation with plans to renovate Tour Montparnasse, often cited as the city's ugliest building. *The New York Times* reports on the overhaul aimed at blending modern design with historical charm. While some residents welcome the change, others fear it could disrupt the city's iconic skyline and cultural identity.
These stories—from the ongoing conflict in Ukraine to architectural changes in Paris—show how global events continue to shape politics, culture, and public opinion.
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Originally published on France 24 Europe on 2/24/2026