With esp01s (I think this is what you have), CH_EN pin is pulled up by the board.
https://www.e-tinkers.com/2020/04/a-better-way-to-use-esp-01-as-wifi-shield/
https://forum.arduino.cc/t/esp-01s-beginner/903667
With esp01s (I think this is what you have), CH_EN pin is pulled up by the board.