The week around the world in 20 pictures

U.S. President Donald Trump is urging Ukraine to finalize a peace deal with Russia, emphasizing the need for a swift resolution. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky is seeking security guarantees before proceeding with any agreement, highlighting the ongoing tension between the two nations.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has expressed a willingness to abandon Ukraine's long-standing bid for NATO membership in exchange for security guarantees, a significant shift in the country's foreign policy amid ongoing peace negotiations with Russia. This statement was made during discussions with U.S. envoys in Berlin, aimed at facilitating dialogue to end the conflict.

Civil defense crews in Gaza are engaged in rescue operations for Palestinians trapped under buildings that collapsed due to heavy rain and ongoing conflict. The storm has exacerbated the already precarious living conditions in the region, where many structures were previously damaged by warfare.

A group of US contractors, including those with ties to the Trump administration, is competing for a reconstruction deal in Gaza, where three-quarters of structures have been damaged or destroyed due to Israeli strikes. The rebuilding effort is estimated to cost around $70 billion, attracting companies specializing in construction and logistics.

Israel announced the killing of Raed Saad, a senior Hamas commander, in a recent airstrike in Gaza. This strike followed an incident where two Israeli soldiers were injured by an explosive device, leading to accusations from both sides of violating a ceasefire that began on October 10.

The Trump administration is actively seeking to recruit approximately 10,000 troops under a U.S. general to stabilize Gaza following recent conflicts. However, many countries remain hesitant to commit to this mission, which could potentially involve disarming Hamas, a contentious issue in the region.

Israel has announced the killing of Raed Saad, a senior commander of Hamas, in an airstrike in Gaza. This operation reportedly resulted in multiple casualties, including injuries to civilians, although Hamas has not confirmed Saad's death. The strike follows a period of escalating tensions and violence in the region.

In Gaza, children are seen desperately trying to sweep floodwater away from their makeshift tents as heavy rains and strong winds from Storm Byron have caused significant flooding in the region. Many families are living in precarious conditions, with their shelters overwhelmed by water, exacerbating an already dire humanitarian crisis.