The Guardian's picture editors have curated a powerful collection of images from around the world, offering a stark and diverse visual narrative of current events. From celebrations of national pride to the harsh realities of conflict, these photographs provide a window into the human experience across continents.
Sri Lanka Marks Independence with Military Parade
In Colombo, Sri Lanka, members of the Army Women's Corps participated in a grand military parade to commemorate the nation's 78th independence day. The event showcased disciplined formations and patriotic fervour, highlighting the country's traditions and sovereignty.
Conflict Zones: Ukraine and Gaza
The ongoing war in Ukraine is depicted through two contrasting scenes. In Odesa, a residential building bears the scars of a Russian drone attack, while in Belgorod, Russia, a residential street lies darkened during a power cut, which local authorities attribute to a recent Ukrainian missile strike.
In Gaza, the humanitarian crisis continues to unfold. Palestinians in Gaza City mourn as the bodies of seven individuals, including children, are prepared for funerals following an Israeli attack. Meanwhile, in Khan Younis, rescue workers inspect the site of an Israeli strike on a camp sheltering displaced Palestinians, and families are reunited after a two-year separation as 40 Palestinian patients arrive back at Nasser hospital.
Political and Cultural Moments
In Vatican City, Pope Leo blesses a child at the end of his weekly general audience, a moment of spiritual connection. Washington DC sees Congress member Rashida Tlaib participating in a committee hearing on the activities of ICE, reflecting ongoing political debates over immigration.
Minneapolis, Minnesota, witnesses federal agents detaining a protester after a judge denied the state's petition for ICE to suspend its operations, underscoring tensions between state and federal authorities.
Celebrations and Everyday Scenes
Beijing, China, offers a lighter note with robots performing a dance at the opening of the city's spring culture festival, blending technology and tradition. In North Miami, Florida, a woman holds a Haitian flag at a vigil after a federal judge blocked the Trump administration from ending temporary immigration status for Haitians, a scene of community solidarity.
Closer to home in the UK, engineers work on a derailed train at Selhurst depot in London after Southern railway issued a 'do not travel' alert, highlighting transport challenges. In Windsor, a removal van arrives at Royal Lodge, the former home of Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor, following his move to the Sandringham estate.
Leisure and Quirky Finds
Scharbeutz, Germany, shows people taking a walk on an ice-covered Baltic Sea beach, a serene winter scene. New York City features a Newfoundland with its handler during the working group competition of the 150th Westminster Kennel Club dog show, celebrating canine excellence.
Los Angeles, California, sees audience members attending a promotional screening of the movie Scream 7 at Paramount Studios, a glimpse into Hollywood's entertainment industry. Finally, in Yiwu, China, a batch of toys that went viral due to a production mistake giving them a sad rather than a happy face is displayed at the city's wholesale market, adding a touch of whimsy to the day's visuals.
