Photos of the Day: June 23, 2026
The Guardian’s picture editors have curated a selection of striking images from around the world, capturing moments of joy, resilience, and beauty. Highlights include a duck being kissed in Mexico City, a Van Gogh-inspired pool in China, and a heatwave in Paris.
Merlin the Duck Becomes World Cup Mascot
In Mexico City, Merlin the duck received a kiss from Christian Gómez, son of the pet’s owner, inside the National Palace. President Sheinbaum invited Merlin and his family to make him an official World Cup mascot, following a public campaign.
Van Gogh Pool in Chengdu
Swimmers in Chengdu, China, enjoyed a pool featuring a mosaic of Vincent van Gogh’s The Starry Night. The artwork, created by VCG/Getty Images, adds a cultural touch to the swimming experience.
Heatwave in Paris
As temperatures rose during a heatwave affecting parts of Europe, a man dived into the Canal Saint-Martin in Paris. The image, captured by Abdul Saboor/Reuters, illustrates the city’s response to the extreme weather.
Endangered Lion Cubs in Venezuela
Vets fed baby white lion cubs at Las Delicias zoo in Maracay, Venezuela. The Timbavati subspecies are considered endangered, with a global population barely exceeding 100, according to Jacinto Oliveros/AFP/Getty Images.
Refilled Lake in Turkey
A visitor walked through the shallow waters of Akgöl in Van, Turkey, which usually dries up during summer but has refilled after heavy rainfall. The image by Ozkan Bilgin/Anadolu/Getty Images shows the unexpected change.
Water Buffalo Cooling Off
An aerial view captured water buffalo cooling off in Lake Eber in Afyonkarahisar, Turkey. The photo by Seyit Konyali/Anadolu/Getty Images highlights the animals’ adaptation to warm weather.
Trinity May Ball in Cambridge
Students crossed Trinity Bridge as punts filled the River Cam after a firework display during the university’s Trinity May Ball, celebrating the end of the academic year. The image by Joe Giddens/PA shows the festive atmosphere.
Bolivia Highway Cleared
People shopped for agricultural products after police driving bulldozers cleared highways, allowing fuel trucks to enter La Paz following anti-government blockades. The photo by Martin Bernetti/AFP/Getty Images depicts the return to normalcy.
World Cup Fever in Mexico
Colombia fans gathered for a banderazo (a large gathering of supporters) in Zapopan, Mexico, ahead of the Fifa World Cup match against Democratic Republic of the Congo. The image by David Ramos/Getty Images captures the excitement.
Marine Corps Training in Virginia
A college student navigated a combat course during training at a marine corps base in Quantico, USA. The photo by Scott Olson/Getty Images shows the rigorous preparation.
Lib Dem Campaign Against Farage
In London, Lib Dem leader Ed Davey stood next to a billboard for a new campaign targeting Reform leader Nigel Farage, on the 10th anniversary of the Brexit referendum. The image by Dan Kitwood/Getty Images underscores the political rivalry.
Illuminated Container Terminal in China
Containers were stacked at an illuminated container terminal in Zhangjiagang Port, Suzhou, China. The photo by Shi Bairong/VCG/Getty Images highlights the bustling trade activity.
Gaza Makeshift Camp
An overcrowded makeshift camp was set up along the Mediterranean coastline of Gaza, where the population struggles to access basic necessities such as food, clean drinking water, electricity, and essential healthcare. The image by Ahmed Jihad Ibrahim Al-arini/Anadolu/Getty Images reveals the dire humanitarian situation.
