Hi Jolee176,
Thank you for giving us the opportunity to assist you with the App Store. Rest assured that we’ll do our best to assist you.
We recommend updating the device if you haven’t. While it isn't inherently assured that an update will resolve the issue, updating can help isolate potential software issues. Kindly secure a backup and install the latest supported iOS version for your device.
How to back up your iPhone, iPad, and iPod touch
Update your iPhone, iPad, or iPod touch
Also, we recommend the steps in the article below.
If you can't connect to the App Store, iTunes Store, or other Apple services
Have you had the chance to check if the issue persists after disabling your VPN? Also, have you had the chance to check if your Apple ID country or region is up to date?
Change your Apple ID country or region
Please keep us posted.
Cheers!