On Thursday, February 26, 2026, a diverse array of compelling images captured moments from across the world, offering a vivid glimpse into current events, cultural happenings, and human experiences. The Guardian's picture editors meticulously selected these photographs, each telling a unique story from different corners of the globe.
London's Provocative Art Installation
In London, UK, a striking 10-metre-wide art piece titled the 'fountain of filth' has been installed on the South Bank. This provocative installation features statues of men, women, and children appearing to vomit discoloured water, drawing attention to environmental and social issues. Created by 4Creative, Glue Society, and Biscuit Filmworks, it coincides with the release of Channel 4's sewage crisis drama, Dirty Business, sparking discussions about pollution and public art.
Political and Military Highlights
In Paris, France, far-right leader Marine Le Pen visited the Paris International Agricultural Show, holding a lamb as she engaged with attendees, highlighting her political outreach efforts. Meanwhile, in Chonburi province, Thailand, US marines participated in an amphibious assault exercise as part of the Cobra Gold 2026 joint military exercise, showcasing international defense cooperation.
In the West Bank, a poignant image shows a cat sitting outside a tent reportedly set on fire by Israeli settlers in Susya village, south of Hebron, underscoring ongoing tensions in the region. In Kharkiv, Ukraine, a woman removes broken window glass from her apartment after a Russian drone strike, reflecting the harsh realities of conflict.
Cultural Celebrations and Natural Wonders
Auckland, New Zealand, hosted the annual lantern festival at the Manukau Sports Bowl, attracting over 110,000 visitors since its inception in 2000. In Cappadocia, Turkey, ancient natural rock formations were covered in white after a snowfall, creating a breathtaking winter landscape in Nevsehir.
Montevideo, Uruguay, celebrated carnival with murga singers performing musical theatre from buses, while in Hunan, China, a humanoid robot fetched drinks for customers at a robot-operated retail cabin, showcasing technological advancements.
Sports and Environmental Events
In Buenos Aires, Argentina, Argentinos Juniors players left the Diego Armando Maradona Stadium after losing on penalties in a Copa Libertadores match against Ecuador's Barcelona. In Charente-Maritime, France, a man walked on a wooden plank footbridge above floodwaters in Saintes, as water levels on the Charente river began to subside after Storm Nils.
Political and Social Scenes
In New York, US, media members gathered outside the Chappaqua performing arts center ahead of former Secretary of State Hillary Clinton's testimony in a congressional investigation into Jeffrey Epstein. In Manchester, UK, Green Party candidate Hannah Spencer arrived at a polling station for a byelection in the Gorton and Denton constituency, where she faces competition from Labour and Reform UK candidates.
Pyongyang, North Korea, saw leader Kim Jong-un and his daughter, Kim Ju-ae, attend a military parade commemorating the 9th Congress of the Workers' Party of Korea. In New Delhi, India, a girl posed during the annual tulip festival, and in Amman, Jordan, the Duchess of Sussex visited the National Centre for Rehabilitation of Addicts with a World Health Organization delegation.
Conclusion
These photographs collectively provide a rich tapestry of global events, from art and politics to culture and nature, highlighting the interconnectedness of our world. Each image serves as a powerful reminder of the diverse stories unfolding daily across continents.
