COVER
Russia's New World Order (The G-8)
What are the implications of Russia's oil-driven comeback for international politics?
Crude Power (Russia | Oil)
The world needs Russia's resources, but Kremlin control spooks the West
EUROPE
Holy War Of Words (Europe | Spain)
Rallying against secularism, Pope Benedict goes head-to-head with Zapatero's liberal reforms
WORLD CUP
The 2006 FIFA World Cup: The End Is Near (World Cup 2006)
In Germany, the tournament enters its last week. The hosts shine, France march on, and Argentine and English hearts are broken in shoot-outs
Outscored (World Cup 2006)
Asia's poor showing in the World Cup suggests that soccer dynasties cannot be built overnight
A Month of Smiles and Sourpusses
If Germany can put on its best face, why can't those who run football, asks TIME's Bill Saporito
FASHION
Prêt à Sporter
Luxury designers tap into the allure of élite sports
BOOKS
Self Knowledge
Will Self invents a new language, new religion — and a cab-driver God
BRIEFING
Iron Rita Loses Her Mettle (Notebook | The Netherlands)
The Dutch government is in ruins as the ruling coalition collapses
What Happened at Haditha? (Notebook / Letters)
VIEWPOINT
The 7/7 Bombs: A Year Later, but Little Wiser (Viewpoint | The July 7 Bombings)
Is the war on terror undermined by an insufficient grasp of what stokes it?
INTERVIEW
10 Questions For Jean-Robert Pitte
Jean-Robert Pitte, president of the Sorbonne, on the state of France's higher education
GLOBAL ADVISER
White Nights (Check In)
Housed in a neon lit tower, the monochromatic Ambience Hotel is Taipei's first truly hip hotel
Spa Gazing (Diversions)
You'll be in no hurry to leave Hong Kong's newly unveiled $6 million Peninsula Spa
Knock Knock, Who's There? (Tech Watch)
Jensen's award winning doorbell features a recording of the designer knocking on a wooden door
A Wild Night Out (Amuse Bouche)
Peacock, crocodile, kangaroo and scorpion are on the menu at London's Archipelago
Off Peak, On Budget (Time Traveler)
Avoid the crowds and save money with these low season gems