May 20th 2026

The Economist Today Our best journalism, handpicked each day

Patrick Lane Senior digital editor

Since returning to office Donald Trump has been casting doubt on America’s commitment to NATO. Lately he has been announcing cuts in troop numbers in Europe. European officials are thinking the once unthinkable: what if we have to fight Russia without America? George Orwell called international sport “war minus the shooting”. The Premier League is no imperial venture, but it has become a global cultural powerhouse. As Arsenal fans—in north London and around the world—celebrate winning the title, we examine the league’s success.

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Editor’s picks A selection of must-read articles

Transatlantic rift Europe’s secret Plan B to replace NATO What happens if America quits

→ Recriminations over Iran have heightened the risk of a break-up of NATO

World champions In football, Britain has a world-beating industry Many things in the country aren’t working. The Premier League is

Buttonwood Investors fear another surge in inflation So why aren’t more buying inflation-protected bonds?

The MAGA tax How much is Donald Trump costing America’s economy?  We calculate the drag on growth from fitful presidential policymaking

Ready Reader One Gamified novels—known as LitRPG—are a winning format Readers are hooked. Authors are reaping the rewards

More of our coverage ▸ A new Ebola outbreak could be the worst in a decade. Since past epidemics, governments and international bodies have vastly improved how they respond to the spread of the virus. Yet that is unlikely to be much help this time around. ▸ Israel is less alone than its critics and enemies hope. But the country is alienating some true friends, writes our Telegram columnist. ▸ Chanel’s creative revival is paying off. The world’s second-biggest luxury label is turning heads again. Matthieu Blazy, who took over as Chanel’s creative director last year, is behind the brand’s change in fortunes.

Tracking Donald Trump Our latest numbers The American president’s net approval rating Find out

Podcast The Intelligence Bibi, one more time? Israel’s election launches