World News in Review

Illinois plans to remove mask mandate

Illinois is set to remove its indoor mask mandate on Mon. Feb. 28 if COVID-19 cases continue to decline. 

“We are now seeing the fastest rate of decline in our COVID-19 hospitalization metrics since the pandemic began,” said Governor JB Pritzker in a press release. “If these trends continue — and we expect them to —then on Monday, February 28th, we will lift the indoor mask requirement for the State of Illinois.”

Ukraine and Russia

According to multiple reports, the U.S. has intelligence stating that Russian commanders have orders to move in for an invasion of Ukraine. The intelligence does not confirm that an invasion will happen. 

This comes after Russian President, Vladimir Putin, has kept troops stationed at the border of Russia and Ukraine for several weeks. 

Canada’s “Freedom Convoy”

Police in Canada have cleared out members of the “Freedom Convoy” protesting Canada’s COVID-19 restrictions. 

The Freedom Convoy is a series of protests that broke out against COVID-19 vaccination mandates emerging in January. Protests have erupted throughout major Canadian cities like Ottawa, Toronto, and Vancouver. 

The Washington Post reported that 170 people were arrested by Saturday morning as police hunkered down on protesters in Ottawa. 

Queen Elizabeth II has COVID-19

Queen Elizabeth II has tested positive for COVID-19. According to The New York Times, two or more counselors may partake in the Queen’s duties if she is unable to perform her tasks. 

Prince Charles and Camila, the Duchess of Cornwall, tested positive as well as a COVID-19 outbreak runs throughout Windsor Castle. 

The Queen’s health is being closely monitored as she exhibits mild cold-like symptoms according to Buckingham Palace.