In Pictures: Highlights of the Week February 20-27

This week offered a vivid snapshot of global events from February 20 to 27, including key moments in sports, diplomacy, film, and nature, highlighting human achievement, cultural celebrations, and striking natural phenomena around the world.

This week, dpa international presents a visual summary of key events worldwide from February 20 to February 27, covering areas such as the ongoing conflict in Ukraine, the Winter Olympics in Milan-Cortina, international diplomacy, major football matches, film festivals, and natural phenomena.

Ukraine Conflict: Four-Year Anniversary of the Invasion

The week began with commemorations marking the fourth anniversary of Russia's military invasion of Ukraine. The ceremonies included the presence of Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelensky and First Lady Olena Zelenska, alongside EU officials such as Ursula von der Leyen, President of the European Commission, Antonio Costa, President of the European Council, and Finland's President Alexander Stubb. These gatherings reinforced international support for Ukraine. In the United States, activists assembled at the Lincoln Memorial to recognize the anniversary. In Berlin, the Brandenburg Gate was illuminated in the Ukrainian national colors, symbolizing solidarity and raising awareness of the war's ongoing humanitarian impact.

Global Politics and Diplomacy

German Chancellor Friedrich Merz visited China and met with President Xi Jinping. During the visit, Merz toured Unitree Robotics in Zhejiang province, observing the company's humanoid robot technologies. In Russia, President Vladimir Putin participated in a wreath-laying ceremony at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier to mark Defender of the Fatherland Day. Meanwhile, in Washington, D.C., former U.S. President Donald Trump delivered his State of the Union address, reviewing the nation's current affairs.

Winter Olympic Games: Milan-Cortina 2026

The Winter Olympics continued to draw attention with memorable performances across multiple disciplines. In freestyle skiing, Alex Ferreira of the USA competed in the Men's Halfpipe final, demonstrating exceptional skill. Short track speed skating saw a serious incident when Poland's Kamila Sellier was struck in the face by Italy's Arianna Fontana during the Women's 1500m race. In cross-country skiing, Norway's Johannes Hsflot Klbo won the Men's 50 km Mass Start Classic, while Sweden's Ebba Andersson claimed victory in the Women's 50 km event. In ice hockey, the United States advanced to the men's finals after a key performance by Matt Boldy in a match against Canada. The closing ceremony celebrated the athletes with the theme "Beauty in Action," concluding the international sporting event.

Football Highlights

Several notable football matches took place this week. Bologna FC faced SK Brann in a UEFA Europa League play-off at the Renato Dall'Ara Stadium. In the English Premier League, Manchester City’s Erling Haaland and Newcastle United’s Dan Burn competed closely. In Ligue 1, Paris Saint-Germain’s Bradley Barcola participated in the match against FC Metz at Parc des Princes. During the UEFA Champions League knockout stage, Atlético Madrid and Club Brugge engaged in a competitive match, with Giuliano Simeone and Mamadou Diakhon actively contesting possession of the ball.

Berlin International Film Festival

The 76th Berlin International Film Festival concluded with award ceremonies recognizing outstanding achievements in cinema. Palestinian director Abdallah Alkhatib received the GWFF Award for Best Feature Film Debut for "Chronicles from the Siege." Lebanese filmmaker Marie-Rose Osta won the Golden Bear for Best Short Film for "Yawman ma walad" ("Someday a Child"). German director Ilker Atak’s "Yellow Letters" received the Golden Bear for Best Film, attended by Turkish actors Özge Namal and Tansu Biçer.

BAFTA Awards

The British Academy of Film and Television Arts (BAFTA) presented its annual awards. Paul Thomas Anderson was awarded Best Film, Best Adapted Screenplay, and Best Director for "One Battle After Another." The ceremony included attendance from Kate, Princess of Wales, Prince William, and BAFTA CEO Jane Millichip, highlighting the event's significance in the international film community.

Melbourne Fashion Week

Melbourne Fashion Week showcased contemporary design trends, including a notable presentation by Joy Wear held at the Royal Exhibition Building, reflecting innovation in the fashion industry.

Nature and Wildlife

Remarkable natural scenes were captured, including a large murmuration of starlings over Gosforth in Newcastle. The coordinated movement of the birds created visually striking patterns, exemplifying the complexity and beauty of wildlife phenomena.

Conclusion

Between global conflicts, sports competitions, diplomatic engagements, cultural celebrations, and natural spectacles, this week offered a diverse range of significant events. The images from February 20 to February 27 document resilience, achievement, and solidarity across political, athletic, cultural, and environmental domains.

Sources:

• Ukraine Conflict: Four-Year Anniversary of the Invasion
• Winter Olympic Games: Milan-Cortina 2026
• Berlin International Film Festival: 76th Edition Concludes
• The Week in Pictures: February 20-27