24 February 2022

Thursday 24 February

2022-02-24

Events

 * Russian forces launch a major military assault on Ukraine, with reports of missile strikes and explosions in major cities. Russian President Vladimir Putin warns that Moscow's response will be "instant" if anyone tries to take on Russia.


 * The London Stock Exchange's leading FTSE 100 index plunges more than 200 points, or 2.7%, within moments of opening in reaction to Russia's invasion of Ukraine.


 * All remaining legal Covid restrictions are removed in England, nearly two years after the first rules were introduced. People are now no longer legally required to self-isolate if they test positive for COVID-19 although they are still advised to do so.