The Economist - 2026 cover

[Puma]

Is there any indication of continued interventionism on the cover of 2026? It would appear not, although other opinions may differ. However, the US elections could change control of Congress halfway through Trump's presidential term, and Brazil will hold general elections where another left-wing government could fall.

Continuing with an exercise in apophenia, could this be why there is a geographical marker on the side of what would be the Americas and an ice cube further down (Patagonia)?

The first prediction on the cover may have come true, because yes, the geographical marker is located in the Americas, specifically where Venezuela should be, and a tank threatens the region. Central America further north appears to be in flames.

The world ahead is now in motion