New Delhi, May 15 -- The United States may remain the world's leading military and economic power, but a new global ranking suggests the country is struggling in several key areas tied to quality of life, health, infrastructure and civic well-being.

According to the latest rankings released by US News & World Report, the US placed 18th overall among the world's best countries ahead of the 250th anniversary of American independence.

The country continued to perform strongly in culture, tourism and economic development.

The United States ranked No. 1 globally in culture and tourism and secured the No. 2 spot in economic development, reflecting the country's continued global influence in entertainment, technology, business and innovation....