The Economist recently reported on Russia’s war troubles. Unfortunately for Ukraine, Vladimir Putin has a partner on whom he can rely. China already supplies Russia with drones and industrial components. Western officials allege that it is now ramping up its sales of nitrocellulose—an ingredient in propellants for artillery shells, tank rounds and missiles.

And Britain is in a sorry state. Its economy is flailing, its people are demoralised and its leadership is in turmoil. But all is not lost: England’s world-beating football industry rules the (air)waves. The Premier League season wraps up tomorrow. In the meantime read about how the league became an international success. (There is nothing “Spursy” about it.)