Russian and Ukrainian delegations met for talks today amid high hopes but low expectations for any diplomatic breakthrough. This comes after Moscow unleashed the biggest land war in Europe since World War II but met unexpectedly stiff resistance.

 

While Ukraine sent its defense minister and other top officials, the Russian delegation was led by Putin’s adviser on culture — an unlikely envoy for ending the war and a sign of how Moscow views the talks.

 

Exact death tolls are unclear, but the U.N. human rights chief said 102 civilians have been killed and hundreds wounded in five days of fighting. Ukraine’s president said at least 16 children were among the dead. More than 500,000 people have fled the country since the invasion, among millions who have left their homes.

 

A panel of scientists convened by the United Nations has published a report on the impact that climate change has had, including on the natural world and human civilization. The report by the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change concludes that nearly half the world’s population already faces significant risk from global warming.

 

Its findings have prompted strong reaction from officials, scientists and climate activists, as well as calls for governments to step up ahead of this year’s U.N. climate conference, known as COP27.

 

St. Thomas’ University Action and Response Team has lifted its face covering requirement in many indoor spaces. The change went into effect Saturday, February 26th. Masks will still be required inside classrooms, labs, St. Thomas’ shuttle and the Center for Well-Being.

UART said the change in policy was“thanks to our strong COVID-19 vaccination rates, a declining number of infections on campus and changes to city ordinances.” 

The message, which was sent to all St. Thomas students, faculty and staff, said the community should still respect those who still need or choose to wear a face covering and that “everyone should carry a face covering in case one is needed.”