Global Highlights in Photos
The Guardian’s picture editors have selected a series of striking images from around the world on Friday, capturing moments from conflict to culture.
In St Petersburg, Russia, smoke rises from a warehouse struck by a Ukrainian long-range drone. Meanwhile, in Ukraine, a soldier checks an FP-1 deep-strike drone before launching it on a combat mission.
Wildfires and Evacuations
In Lacanau, France, beachgoers sit on Moutchic beach as smoke from a wildfire rises into the sky. The fire in the Arcachon Basin, Gironde, has swept through more than 3,400 hectares. In nearby Lège-Cap-Ferret, firefighters battle the blaze, which has led to the evacuation of about 40,000 people. In Cebreros, Spain, evacuees spend the night at a sports centre due to a wildfire threat.
Politics and Protests
In Manchester, England, the UK’s new prime minister, Andy Burnham, arrives by car for a meeting at No 10 North, where he is expected to work at least one day a week. In Delhi, India, supporters of the Cockroach Janata party queue for food during a protest.
Sports and Festivals
In Sydney, Australia, the USA plays Australia in the women’s semi-finals of the 2026 Water Polo World Cup. In Glasgow, Scotland, Singapore’s Jovi Loh competes in the vault at the Commonwealth Games. In Alpe d’Huez, France, the caravan passes during Stage 19 of the Tour de France. In Kyoto, Japan, floats take part in the Ato Matsuri Yamaboko Junko parade, a festival with a history spanning more than 1,000 years.
Nature and Wildlife
In Kars, Turkey, damselflies are seen in the Sarıkamış wetlands, where recent rainfall has created ideal breeding conditions. In San Diego, California, sea lions rest on a beach.
Other Notable Images
In Tehran, Iran, a woman and child walk past missiles on display in Azadi Square. In Gaza City, Gaza Strip, a woman collects papers scattered by an Israeli strike on a residential area. In Dover, England, vehicles queue at the ferry port at the start of the peak summer holiday travel period. In Guadalajara, Mexico, a model presents a creation from the Living Gold collection by designer Edher Gin at the 85th Intermoda event.
