Today's best photos: From Russia cross country skiing to the Great Wall of China

The National picks the most striking images from around the world

epaselect General view of the start of the traditional cross country skiing mass race 'Ski-Track of Russia' in Khimki, outside Moscow, Russia, 11 February 2023. Thousands of people took part in the competition all around Russia. EPA / SERGEI ILNITSKY

Waves crash against a sea wall at an Auckland beach as a cyclone hits the upper parts of New Zealand. AP

A French police officer hits a protester with a baton during protests over pension reforms in Nantes. AFP

Children participate in the 'Llamingada', a llama race for eight to 13-year-olds in Salcedo, Ecuador. EPA

The King of Carnival float at the annual Nice Carnival in France, Reuters

Shipwrecked boats in a mudbank in the Wyre Estuary as police search for missing Nicola Bulley in Fleetwood, England. Getty

A temporary accommodation centre on a football pitch in Gaziantep, Turkey. Reuters

The Great Wall of China in Mutianyu in the Huairou district. AFP

More from The National:

Saturday's best photos: from from carnival in Venice to cycling in Oman

Friday's best photos: from North Korea's military parade to the war in Ukraine

Thursday's best photos: from Sydney Opera House tribute to China's terraced fields

Wednesday's best photos: from fighting flamingos to rush hour in Chennai

Tuesday's best photos: from Muay Thai Guinness record to a carnivorous plant

Monday's best photos: from Lizzo's Grammy win to Rainbow Mountain