Monday, 15th December 2025, presented a world in motion, captured through a series of compelling photographs from every corner of the globe. From political upheaval and public protest to acts of remembrance and cultural tradition, the day's events painted a complex picture of our current moment.
Political Moves and Public Unrest
In Europe, significant political dialogues and domestic tensions unfolded simultaneously. The Ukrainian President, Volodymyr Zelenskyy, was welcomed to Berlin's Bellevue Palace by German President Frank-Walter Steinmeier. The visit was part of continued talks with envoys from Donald Trump's administration on potential pathways to end the ongoing war with Russia.
Meanwhile, in France, discontent spilled onto the highways. Farmers, predominantly from the Coordination Rurale union, blockaded the A63 motorway near Bordeaux. Their protest targeted a government-ordered cull of cattle in south-west France, mandated due to an outbreak of lumpy skin disease. In a separate incident highlighting national tensions, the iconic Louvre Museum in Paris stood eerily empty, its workers on strike over disputes concerning staffing levels, renovation projects, and proposed ticket price increases. This industrial action came just weeks after a high-profile jewellery heist at the institution.
Political shifts were also evident in Chile, where the far-right candidate José Antonio Kast claimed victory with 58% of the vote in the presidential runoff. His election marks the most right-wing leadership Chile has seen since the end of the Pinochet military dictatorship in 1990.
Acts of Remembrance and Solidarity
In Sydney, Australia, a sombre mood prevailed as the city continued to grapple with the aftermath of a tragic mass shooting. A giant menorah was projected onto the sails of the Sydney Opera House, serving as a poignant memorial for the victims of the attack at Bondi beach. The incident, which allegedly involved a father and son, killed at least 16 people during a Jewish festival celebrating the first day of Hanukah. In a separate gathering, mourners attended a vigil for the victims, as Prime Minister Anthony Albanese pledged to introduce tougher gun control laws.
A unique symbol of hope and unity was crafted in Lebanon. In Roumieh, north-east of Beirut, a Christmas tree made from two tonnes of soap was carefully retouched. Believed to be the first of its kind globally, the tree was carved by a renowned local soap maker. In a gesture of community spirit, the plan is to dismantle the tree after Christmas and donate the soap to both Christian and Muslim orphanages.
Global Health, Sport, and Daily Life
Public health efforts took centre stage in Pakistan, where a final push in a national anti-polio campaign is underway. The drive, running until 21st December, aims to vaccinate more than 45 million children. Health workers were seen conducting door-to-door vaccinations in KPK province, under the watchful eye of local police.
On the sporting front, the 2025 SEA Games in Thailand featured athletes like Malaysia's Mavia Wong Weng Qin in the rhythmic gymnastics qualifications. Closer to home, UK Conservative leader Kemi Badenoch visited the historic Brands Hatch grand prix circuit in Kent.
From the oyster harvests in China's Haizhou Bay and steel plant emissions in Jiangsu, to festive selfies in Jakarta's malls and the bustling Ginza shopping district in Tokyo, the day also captured the relentless rhythm of daily life and industry across the continents.
