Decisive Moments of the Globe: News Captured in Photos from January 2026

During the last week of January 2026, significant events unfolded around the globe, leaving a visual mark in international news. From political conflicts to natural disasters, these photos document moments that shaped the global agenda. Through these images, we can see the different realities faced by communities worldwide in capturing news that defines the current landscape.

Political Confrontations and Tensions on the Ground

Minneapolis became the epicenter of mass protests after the January 24 incident, when federal immigration agents opened fire on a U.S. citizen, prompting condemnations from local leaders and expressions of public outrage. This was the second similar tragedy recorded during the month, deepening the national crisis. Photos of the event show protesters in the streets, holding signs in memory of Renee Nicole Good and Alex Pretti, who lost their lives in separate incidents involving immigration agents.

President Donald Trump and Minnesota Governor Tim Walz held private communications on January 26, adopting a tone of de-escalation that suggests an effort to defuse rising tensions. Trump administration officials announced that Gregory Bovino, a prominent Border Patrol officer, would leave Minnesota along with personnel deployed under his command, as a gesture toward pacification.

In Tirana, Albania, on January 24, protests also took place following an investigation into corruption against Deputy Prime Minister Belinda Balluku. News photos show police officers holding back protesters while Molotov cocktails were thrown near the Prime Minister’s office, reflecting the political confrontation climate in the Balkan region.

Disasters, Tragedies, and Their Humanitarian Aftermaths

A maritime tragedy impacted the Philippines on January 26 when the ferry M/V Trisha Kerstin 3 was sunk by extreme waves off Baluk-Baluk Island in Basilan. Eighteen bodies were recovered on the same day. Filipino authorities captured in photos the search and rescue operation, with survivors being transported to land. The incident led the Department of Transportation to ground the entire fleet of the company, linked to 32 maritime incidents since 2019.

In Chernihiv, Ukraine, civilian infrastructure was hit again by nighttime missile and drone attacks from Russia on January 24. Documented photos show residents seeking refuge at humanitarian aid points, warming themselves and charging electronic devices during power outages caused by the attacks.

Lagos, Nigeria, experienced a controversial action on January 25 when officials burned structures in the riverside community of Makoko, known as the “Venice of Nigeria.” Authorities are executing a broader land reclamation plan along the lagoon, removing homes and schools near power lines. Photos captured children floating in makeshift plastic canoes while remaining structures were consumed by flames.

Cultural Celebrations and Moments of Inspiration

On January 25, Tokyo, Japan, hosted an emotional event: the final viewing of the twin giant pandas Xiao Xiao and Lei Lei at Ueno Zoo before their planned return to China. Visitors filled the area to photograph and film four-year-old Xiao Xiao, capturing farewell moments in photos. In Iloilo City, Philippines, on January 25, the Ati tribe competition at the Dinagyang 2026 Festival took place, where various school tribes presented traditional acts, generating colorful cultural news visuals.

Cebu hosted significant ASEAN events, marking the start of the Philippines’ ASEAN Chairmanship. The ASEAN Ministerial Retreat gathered ten foreign ministers to discuss regional issues. The ASEAN Tourism Forum, the bloc’s largest tourism officials’ meeting, also took place in the “Queen City of the South,” including the ASEAN Travel Exchange and ASEAN Tourism Conference. Filipino cultural dancers performed traditional acts during the official opening on January 28 at the Mactan Shrine in Lapu-Lapu, with photos documenting the importance of these regional diplomatic news.

In Europe, on January 27, Lerwick in the Shetland Islands, Great Britain, hosted Up Helly Aa, Europe’s largest fire festival, marking the end of the Christmas season. Photos showed Lynden Nicolson, the Guizer Jarl, blowing candles on a cake while wearing full ceremonial attire. Paris, France, hosted the Spring/Summer 2026 Haute Couture Fashion Show by Georges Hobeika on January 26, where models showcased designs by Georges and Jad Hobeika. The Brandenburg Gate in Berlin, Germany, was illuminated with Israeli colors on January 27 in remembrance of the International Holocaust Remembrance Day.

Environmental Activism and Mobilizations for Change

On January 28, in Makati City, Philippines, environmental groups led by the Kalikasan People’s Network for the Environment protested against alleged mining plunder in Dupax Del Norte and other areas of Nueva Vizcaya. Photos captured protesters outside FCF Minerals’ office, highlighting environmental and community impacts of mining operations. In Brussels, Belgium, on January 26, Greenpeace activists protested with a giant inflatable gas tanker adorned with figures of Russian President Vladimir Putin and U.S. President Donald Trump, symbolizing concerns over energy and geopolitical policies.

In San Francisco, California, on January 30, protesters gathered at Mission Dolores Park for an “ICE Out” protest following the fatal shootings of Renee Nicole Good and Alex Pretti, continuing mobilizations demanding justice and policy change.

Through these photos and news from the last week of January, the camera has captured the complexity of the contemporary world, where protests, celebrations, tragedies, and hope converge. Each image witnesses the transformations and tensions that define our time, reminding us of the importance of visually documenting moments that shape global history.

— With reports from Reuters and Rappler.com