Exploring the Week: 38 Captivating Photos

Weekly News Highlights

US House Speaker Nancy Pelosi visited Taiwan this week and emphasized that her visit was intended to make it “unequivocally clear” that the United States would “not abandon” the democratically governed island.

This significant event marks the first visit by a US House speaker to Taiwan in 25 years, occurring during Pelosi’s tour of Asia and amidst a low point in US-China relations.

Taiwan has become a focal point of tension between the United States and China due to concerns about a potential Chinese incursion on the self-governed island, which China claims as its territory. As a result, both the Biden administration and China issued warnings regarding the visit.

China responded to Pelosi’s visit with military exercises, and multiple missiles were fired toward waters near northeastern and southwestern Taiwan on Thursday.

Throughout her congressional career, Pelosi has represented the United States in discussions with Chinese officials, demonstrating resilience in facing Beijing’s stances and those from her own party.

Other Major Stories This Week

Basketball star Brittney Griner sits inside a defendant's cage in Russia while awaiting a verdict
Basketball star Brittney Griner sits inside a defendant’s cage in Russia awaiting a verdict. Griner was later convicted of deliberately smuggling drugs into Russia and sentenced to nine years of jail time. Her circumstances have sparked concerns about her being used as a political pawn in the ongoing conflict involving Russia.
Aerial photo of a large sinkhole near a mine in Tierra Amarilla, Chile
This aerial photo, taken on August 1, shows a large sinkhole near a mine in Tierra Amarilla, Chile. Authorities are currently investigating the cause.

Johan Godoy/AFP/Getty Images

Tim Lewis of the Kentucky National Guard secures evacuees after flooding in Kentucky
Tim Lewis of the Kentucky National Guard secures Candace Spencer and her son Wyatt after airlifting them from South Fork, Kentucky on July 30. Heavy rains have led to widespread flooding in the area, claiming at least 37 lives and leaving many missing.

Michael Swensen/Getty Images

South African swimmer Pieter Coetze competing at the Commonwealth Games
South African swimmer Pieter Coetze competes in the 100-meter backstroke at the Commonwealth Games in England on July 29.

In summary, this week has seen prominent events that have shaped not only regional politics but have also raised issues about social justice, international relations, and environmental challenges. The ongoing dynamics offer insights into the complexities of our global landscape.

Back To Top