From Haiti's upheaval to Botswana's glittering prize
Haiti on the brink once more, an attack on press freedom in the middle of Europe, and a diamond the size of the palm of a hand — here are some of the most striking images of the day's current events.
Haiti after the assassination of Jovenel Moise
Already in a politically unstable state, Haiti's future looked increasing uncertain on Thursday following the assassination of President Jovenel Moise a day earlier. Four suspects were killed in a shootout with police while two others have been detained. Moise's wife, Martine, was also critically wounded.
Support for Dutch journalist Peter R. de Vries
The son of Dutch investigative reporter Peter R. de Vries has said the family's "worst nightmare came true" when his father was shot and seriously wounded. De Vries, 64, was still in critical condition in the hospital on Thursday. He was shot multiple times on Tuesday while leaving a TV studio in Amsterdam. Three men were arrested, but police say one is no longer a suspect.
Anti-LGBTQ law goes into effect in Hungary
A new law banning the "promotion" of homosexuality to minors went into effect in Hungary on Thursday. Lawmakers at the European Parliament are calling on the European Commission to use a newly created law to freeze payments to Hungary for "grave breaches of the rule of law." Proponents of the law say it is intended to "protect children."
Heat wave in Canada and US
A heat wave smashed all-time temperature records in western Canada and the northwestern United States, leaving a rising death toll in its wake. Residents are bracing for more sizzling weather and the threat of wildfires.
Large diamond unearthed in Botswana
An exceptionally large and white 1,174-carat diamond stone has been unearthed in Botswana. It's even larger than another precious stone found in the African country in June. The size of the palm of a large hand, it was found by the Canadian Diamond firm Lucara and presented to the country’s Cabinet on Wednesday.