Cheers, cake and Monopoly: photos of the day – Thursday

A passionate collector shares their journey of amassing the world's largest Monopoly collection, currently standing at 4,379 unique sets. This impressive feat has earned them four Guinness World Records and numerous TV appearances, showcasing the joy and excitement of collecting. With aspirations to reach 4,500 or even 5,000 sets, this story highlights the dedication and enthusiasm of collectors, inspiring others to pursue their passions.

Today's photo selection from The Guardian captures a range of significant events, including the chaos of traffic, the controversial practice of shark fishing, and the impact of Typhoon Matmo. These images not only showcase the beauty and challenges of our world but also highlight pressing environmental and social issues that resonate globally. It's a reminder of how interconnected our experiences are, whether we're dealing with natural disasters or human activities.

In France, the political landscape is facing turbulence as President Macron's recent meeting with major parties concluded without any significant progress, leaving left-wing factions feeling disappointed. This situation is crucial as a new prime minister is anticipated to be appointed soon, which could reshape the government's direction. The lack of consensus highlights ongoing tensions in French politics and raises questions about the effectiveness of current leadership.

President Trump has taken a hard stance against China, threatening to raise tariffs and impose export controls in response to China's recent restrictions on rare-earth materials. This escalation in trade negotiations signals a growing tension between the two nations, which could have significant implications for global markets and supply chains. As both countries navigate these challenges, the potential for a trade war looms larger, affecting not just the U.S. and China, but economies worldwide.

The Rangers football club has publicly condemned a recent attack on the statue of their former player, Smith, calling it 'shameful.' This incident has sparked outrage among fans, especially in light of criticism directed at the club by Tuchel. Such events highlight the ongoing tensions in football culture and the passionate responses from supporters, emphasizing the importance of respecting club legends and the community's values.

Maria Corina Machado, a prominent figure in Venezuela's opposition, has directly appealed to Donald Trump for assistance as her country grapples with an ongoing crisis. This call for help comes in the wake of the Nobel Prize recognition for the opposition, highlighting the international attention on Venezuela's struggles. The situation is critical, and the involvement of global leaders like Trump could significantly impact the future of the nation.

The recent decision to scale back the 10-year mental health strategy has been labeled 'disastrous' by experts, as it is estimated that £1.2 billion is required to implement the 35 actions outlined in 2021. This move raises concerns about the future of mental health support, which is crucial for many individuals and communities. The reduction in funding could hinder progress and leave vulnerable populations without the necessary resources for their mental well-being.

A significant explosion occurred at a military explosives plant in Tennessee, causing shockwaves felt miles away and prompting emergency responders to rush to the scene. The situation remains critical as first responders have been unable to enter the facility due to ongoing explosions. This incident raises concerns about safety protocols in such facilities and the potential impact on nearby communities.