Capturing Moments: This Week's Global Highlights

This week's photo collection showcases pivotal events ranging from Uruguay’s election results to Thanksgiving festivities in the U.S., alongside the aftermath of Storm Bert in the UK and Japan's resplendent autumn.

A selection of poignant news photographs captures the essence of recent events around the globe.

Andres Cuenca/Reuters

In Uruguay, supporters rejoiced as Yamandu Orsi, a left-wing former history teacher, triumphantly claimed the presidency, outperforming Álvaro Delgado, the candidate from the ruling conservative coalition, by a margin of over three percentage points in a closely contested run-off.

Andrew Harnik/Getty Images

This week also marked the annual Thanksgiving Turkey pardoning ceremony at the White House, where President Joe Biden ceremonially spared the lives of the National Thanksgiving Turkeys, Blossom and Peach. This delightful tradition, rooted in history, can be traced back to President Abraham Lincoln's compassionate act in 1863.

Jordan Pettitt/PA Media

Tragedy struck across parts of the UK as Storm Bert unleashed heavy rains and fierce winds, resulting in at least five fatalities and significant disruptions to roads and rail services. Dramatic images revealed flooded caravans at the Billing Aquadrome Holiday Park, a stark reminder of nature's fury.

Issei Kato/Reuters

Across the globe in Tokyo, families reveled under a bright sky in Showa Kinen Park, surrounded by ginkgo trees turning vibrant shades of yellow. Despite the tree's widespread cultivation, it faces extinction in its natural habitat, highlighting the importance of conservation.

Joe Giddens/PA Media

As the festive season draws near, the Royal Park at Sandringham House in Norfolk unveiled its dazzling winter light trails, inviting visitors to experience the magic of Christmas.

Sarah Meyssonnier/Reuters

In Paris, French President Emmanuel Macron visited the iconic Notre Dame Cathedral, five and a half years post-devastating fire. The extensive renovations, culminating in the cathedral's official reopening on December 7, symbolize a "shock of hope" for the nation.

Simon Maina/AFPA

In Namibia, a local football match unfolded on a makeshift field, showcasing the universal love for the sport in even the most unconventional settings.

AFPTeddy bears being prepared for shipment at a toy factory in Lianyungang, China, were caught on camera as the production line buzzed with activity. Meanwhile, U.S. President-elect Donald Trump announced plans for an additional 10% tax on goods from China.

Billy Tompkins/ZUMA Press Wire/REX/Shutterstock

In New York City, a significant move towards environmental sustainability was announced as Governor Kathy Hochul introduced plans for the nation's first congestion charge starting January 5. The initiative aims to alleviate street congestion, curb pollution, and enhance public transport systems.

Kim Hong-Ji/Reuters

Finally, Seoul experienced its heaviest November snowfall in recorded history, dating back to 1907, exemplifying the stark effects of changing climate conditions.