European Commission President Jean-Claude Juncker insisted Tuesday the EU had done "all in our power" to ensure an <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uk-parliament-speaker-john-bercow-blocks-holding-of-new-vote-on-brexit-deal-257365">orderly Brexit</a>, but said the bloc would await British parliamentary approval for a new divorce deal before ratifying it. &nbsp;&nbsp;

Expressing regret that Britain planned to leave the EU on October 31, Juncker said: "At least we can look ourselves in the eyes and say that we have done all in our power to make sure that this departure is orderly."&nbsp;

"We need now to watch events in Westminster very closely. It's not possible, not imaginable that this parliament will ratify the agreement before Westminster will have ratified the agreement," he told the European Parliament in Strasbourg.

British Prime Minister Boris Johnson is desperately trying to secure a break from Brussels that severs many of the island nation's economic and political ties with Europe after 46 years of EU membership.

Lawmakers in Britain, meeting on a Saturday for the first time in 37 years, voted to demand that <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/british-prime-minister-boris-johnson-prepares-fresh-brexit-push-257303">Johnson delay Brexit</a> while they further consider his newly-agreed EU divorce agreement.

The government's new strategy is to get parliament Tuesday to approve an accompanying package of legislation that needs ratifying for Brexit to take effect.

Britain has been struggling to agree on how to leave the EU ever since narrowly backing Brexit in a 2016 referendum.

European Commission President Jean-Claude Juncker insisted Tuesday the EU had done "all in our power" to ensure an orderly Brexit, but said the bloc would await British parliamentary approval for a new divorce deal before ratifying it.

European Commission President Jean-Claude Juncker insisted Tuesday the EU had done "all in our power" to ensure an orderly Brexit, but said the bloc would await British parliamentary approval for a new divorce deal before ratifying it. Expressing regret that Britain planned to leave the EU on October 31, Juncker said: "At least we can look ourselves in the eyes and say that we have done all in our power to make sure that this departure is orderly." "We need now to watch events in Westminster very closely. It's not possible, not imaginable that this parliament will ratify the agreement before Westminster will have ratified the agreement," he told the European Parliament in Strasbourg. British Prime Minister Boris Johnson is desperately trying to secure a break from Brussels that severs many of the island nation's economic and political ties with Europe after 46 years of EU membership. Lawmakers in Britain, meeting on a Saturday for the first time in 37 years, voted to demand that Johnson delay Brexit while they further consider his newly-agreed EU divorce agreement. The government's new strategy is to get parliament Tuesday to approve an accompanying package of legislation that needs ratifying for Brexit to take effect. Britain has been struggling to agree on how to leave the EU ever since narrowly backing Brexit in a 2016 referendum.

European Union 'have done all in our power' for orderly Brexit: Juncker

A defiant Prime Minister Boris Johnson said he would not negotiate a further delay to Britain's departure from the European Union after losing a vote in parliament on Saturday (October 19) that means he is obliged to request a postponement.

UK PM writes half-hearted letter to EU

Brexit Vote setback for Boris Johnson

European Union officials called Sunday for a ceasefire in Afghanistan, saying the breakdown in talks between the US and the Taliban presented an opportunity to push anew for a truce.

US President Donald Trump last month declared talks with the insurgents "dead", citing a Taliban attack that killed a US soldier.

Negotiations had been in the final stages for a deal that would have seen the US pull troops from Afghanistan after 18 years in return for various Taliban guarantees.

But to the dismay of many Afghans and international observers, the deal included no immediate, comprehensive ceasefire, rather it would supposedly have paved the way for a reduction in violence and later talks between the Taliban and the Afghan government.

Roland Kobia, the EU special envoy for Afghanistan, said the talks' collapse provided a chance to push for a ceasefire which would, in turn, prove a large enough change in Afghanistan for Trump to consider resuming negotiations.

"It's the right moment and the right opportunity to maybe go one step beyond a simple reduction in violence and explore ways in which a ceasefire ... will take place," Kobia told Kabul journalists.

"The idea is really to see how we can move the ceasefire idea forward instead of leaving it for later.... There is an opportunity here today".

When asked how the EU, which has only a limited footprint in Afghanistan, could leverage a truce, Kobia suggested that the Taliban might return to power in "one form or another" within months so would entertain a truce to help normalise future relations with the European bloc.

"A ceasefire would be a token, a guarantee of goodwill and good preparation for the normalisation of these relationships," Kobia said.

The Taliban, for its part, has steadfastly ruled out an immediate ceasefire but last year downed weapons for a three-day truce.

Delayed election results

Afghanistan is currently in an uneasy waiting period following the first round of presidential elections on September 28.&nbsp;

Results were supposed to be released Saturday but have been indefinitely delayed due to "technical issues", the Independent Election Commission said.

Pierre Mayaudon, head of the EU delegation in Afghanistan, said a delay of a few days to finalise results was legitimate to ensure votes were fairly counted.

"But not many more days that again will go into weeks and will possibly raise the perception that something is happening," he told reporters.

US Defense Secretary Mark Esper meanwhile arrived in Kabul on Sunday on an unannounced visit.

According to Fawad Aman, a spokesman for the Afghan defence ministry, Esper was due to meet with "key leaders and receive an operational update".

US Forces-Afghanistan, headquartered in Kabul, did not immediately return a request for comment on Esper's visit.

Since Trump ended talks with the Taliban, Zalmay Khalilzad, the US special envoy leading negotiations, has spoken informally with insurgents in Pakistan, raising the possibility the US is seeking to resume discussions.

In the meantime, violence in Afghanistan continues unabated. On Friday, at least 70 people were killed when a mosque in Nangarhar province was bombed.

European Union officials called Sunday for a ceasefire in Afghanistan, saying the breakdown in talks between the US and the Taliban presented an opportunity to push anew for a truce.

European Union officials called Sunday for a ceasefire in Afghanistan, saying the breakdown in talks between the US and the Taliban presented an opportunity to push anew for a truce. US President Donald Trump last month declared talks with the insurgents "dead", citing a Taliban attack that killed a US soldier. Negotiations had been in the final stages for a deal that would have seen the US pull troops from Afghanistan after 18 years in return for various Taliban guarantees. But to the dismay of many Afghans and international observers, the deal included no immediate, comprehensive ceasefire, rather it would supposedly have paved the way for a reduction in violence and later talks between the Taliban and the Afghan government. Roland Kobia, the EU special envoy for Afghanistan, said the talks' collapse provided a chance to push for a ceasefire which would, in turn, prove a large enough change in Afghanistan for Trump to consider resuming negotiations. "It's the right moment and the right opportunity to maybe go one step beyond a simple reduction in violence and explore ways in which a ceasefire ... will take place," Kobia told Kabul journalists. "The idea is really to see how we can move the ceasefire idea forward instead of leaving it for later.... There is an opportunity here today". When asked how the EU, which has only a limited footprint in Afghanistan, could leverage a truce, Kobia suggested that the Taliban might return to power in "one form or another" within months so would entertain a truce to help normalise future relations with the European bloc. "A ceasefire would be a token, a guarantee of goodwill and good preparation for the normalisation of these relationships," Kobia said. The Taliban, for its part, has steadfastly ruled out an immediate ceasefire but last year downed weapons for a three-day truce. Delayed election results Afghanistan is currently in an uneasy waiting period following the first round of presidential elections on September 28. Results were supposed to be released Saturday but have been indefinitely delayed due to "technical issues", the Independent Election Commission said. Pierre Mayaudon, head of the EU delegation in Afghanistan, said a delay of a few days to finalise results was legitimate to ensure votes were fairly counted. "But not many more days that again will go into weeks and will possibly raise the perception that something is happening," he told reporters. US Defense Secretary Mark Esper meanwhile arrived in Kabul on Sunday on an unannounced visit. According to Fawad Aman, a spokesman for the Afghan defence ministry, Esper was due to meet with "key leaders and receive an operational update". US Forces-Afghanistan, headquartered in Kabul, did not immediately return a request for comment on Esper's visit. Since Trump ended talks with the Taliban, Zalmay Khalilzad, the US special envoy leading negotiations, has spoken informally with insurgents in Pakistan, raising the possibility the US is seeking to resume discussions. In the meantime, violence in Afghanistan continues unabated. On Friday, at least 70 people were killed when a mosque in Nangarhar province was bombed.

European Union calls for Afghanistan ceasefire

UK PM Boris Johnson tables Brexit deal with EU. Watch video to know more.

UK PM Boris Johnson tables Brexit deal with EU

British Prime Minister Boris Johnson launched a charm offensive on Friday to sell his Brexit deal to sceptical MPs, with a looming vote in parliament resting on a knife-edge.

The Conservative leader pulled off a major coup in agreeing a new divorce deal with the European Union on Thursday, paving the way for him to deliver his promise to leave the bloc on October 31.

But the agreement must still be approved by the House of Commons, which is meeting for the first time on a Saturday in 37 years to debate the text -- and many MPs are strongly opposed.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uks-johnson-says-great-new-deal-reached-on-brexit-256464">'Great new deal' reached on Brexit: UK PM Boris Johnson</a>

Johnson told a Brussels press conference late Thursday that he was "very confident" of getting the accord through -- although analysts suggest the vote could be very tight.

Johnson has no majority among MPs, opposition parties have come out against the deal and even his parliamentary ally, Northern Ireland's Democratic Unionist Party (DUP), says it cannot support the terms.

If the Commons rejects the deal, Johnson will be forced by law to ask the EU to delay Brexit, for what would be the third time. He has said he would rather "die in a ditch" than do so.

European Commission President Jean-Claude Juncker sought to focus MPs' minds, saying Brussels can see no need to prolong the tortuous three-year Brexit process -- although the decision to delay, if requested by London, would be for EU leaders.

"There is no choice between Brexit or no Brexit: it's a choice between deal or no deal," Luxembourg's Prime Minister Xavier Bettel said Friday.&nbsp;

'This is our chance'

Johnson took office in July vowing to keep to the October 31 Brexit deadline, deal or no deal.

He pledged to renegotiate the most contentious elements of a divorce text agreed by his predecessor Theresa May with Brussels last year, which was rejected by MPs three times.

The compromise deal that was finally struck on Thursday has a new arrangement for keeping open the border between British Northern Ireland and EU member Ireland.

"It looks like we are very close to the final stretch," EU Council President Donald Tusk said after the bloc's leaders endorsed the text.

Johnson has assured his European counterparts that he can get the deal through the Commons, where he requires the support of 319 other MPs to guarantee backing.

"I'm very confident that when my colleagues in parliament study this agreement, that they will want to vote for it on Saturday, and then in succeeding days," he told reporters.

"This is our chance in the UK as democrats to get Brexit done, and come out on October 31."

Wooing Labour rebels

However, the DUP has said it cannot support the plans, as efforts to avoid checks on the Irish land border would lead to new trade barriers between Northern Ireland and mainland Britain.

The main opposition Labour, Scottish National and Liberal Democrat parties are also against.

The pound had risen to five-month peaks on news of the deal.

However sterling dipped about 0.1 percent against the dollar on Friday as investors continued to fret over Johnson's chances of success.

Johnson will meet with and call MPs to try to win support for his deal throughout Friday, a Downing Street official said.

With the numbers extremely close, he needs to win over Labour MPs representing Brexit-supporting constituencies.

The Labour leadership objects to the new deal because it paves the way for looser ties between Britain and the EU than were previously envisaged. The party wants a second referendum on any deal.

"We should just vote the deal down because it's such a bad deal," Labour finance spokesman John McDonnell told BBC radio.

"It is a sell-out."

Britain's eurosceptic newspapers backed Johnson's deal, which comes more than three years after Britons voted narrowly to leave the EU in a referendum that has left the country bitterly divided.

"Get real... take the deal!" said The Sun's front page, while the Daily Mail went for "He's done his duty. Now MPs must do theirs", and the Daily Express said "Just do it!"

Meanwhile, the Financial Times called for a second referendum, while the Labour-supporting Daily Mirror said the best thing about Johnson's deal was that it was better than no deal.

The Times urged lawmakers to back the agreement, while The Daily Telegraph said parliament "must not scupper this chance". 
&nbsp;

British Prime Minister Boris Johnson launched a charm offensive on Friday to sell his Brexit deal to sceptical MPs, with a looming vote in parliament resting on a knife-edge.

British Prime Minister Boris Johnson launched a charm offensive on Friday to sell his Brexit deal to sceptical MPs, with a looming vote in parliament resting on a knife-edge. The Conservative leader pulled off a major coup in agreeing a new divorce deal with the European Union on Thursday, paving the way for him to deliver his promise to leave the bloc on October 31. But the agreement must still be approved by the House of Commons, which is meeting for the first time on a Saturday in 37 years to debate the text -- and many MPs are strongly opposed. Also read: 'Great new deal' reached on Brexit: UK PM Boris Johnson Johnson told a Brussels press conference late Thursday that he was "very confident" of getting the accord through -- although analysts suggest the vote could be very tight. Johnson has no majority among MPs, opposition parties have come out against the deal and even his parliamentary ally, Northern Ireland's Democratic Unionist Party (DUP), says it cannot support the terms. If the Commons rejects the deal, Johnson will be forced by law to ask the EU to delay Brexit, for what would be the third time. He has said he would rather "die in a ditch" than do so. European Commission President Jean-Claude Juncker sought to focus MPs' minds, saying Brussels can see no need to prolong the tortuous three-year Brexit process -- although the decision to delay, if requested by London, would be for EU leaders. "There is no choice between Brexit or no Brexit: it's a choice between deal or no deal," Luxembourg's Prime Minister Xavier Bettel said Friday. 'This is our chance' Johnson took office in July vowing to keep to the October 31 Brexit deadline, deal or no deal. He pledged to renegotiate the most contentious elements of a divorce text agreed by his predecessor Theresa May with Brussels last year, which was rejected by MPs three times. The compromise deal that was finally struck on Thursday has a new arrangement for keeping open the border between British Northern Ireland and EU member Ireland. "It looks like we are very close to the final stretch," EU Council President Donald Tusk said after the bloc's leaders endorsed the text. Johnson has assured his European counterparts that he can get the deal through the Commons, where he requires the support of 319 other MPs to guarantee backing. "I'm very confident that when my colleagues in parliament study this agreement, that they will want to vote for it on Saturday, and then in succeeding days," he told reporters. "This is our chance in the UK as democrats to get Brexit done, and come out on October 31." Wooing Labour rebels However, the DUP has said it cannot support the plans, as efforts to avoid checks on the Irish land border would lead to new trade barriers between Northern Ireland and mainland Britain. The main opposition Labour, Scottish National and Liberal Democrat parties are also against. The pound had risen to five-month peaks on news of the deal. However sterling dipped about 0.1 percent against the dollar on Friday as investors continued to fret over Johnson's chances of success. Johnson will meet with and call MPs to try to win support for his deal throughout Friday, a Downing Street official said. With the numbers extremely close, he needs to win over Labour MPs representing Brexit-supporting constituencies. The Labour leadership objects to the new deal because it paves the way for looser ties between Britain and the EU than were previously envisaged. The party wants a second referendum on any deal. "We should just vote the deal down because it's such a bad deal," Labour finance spokesman John McDonnell told BBC radio. "It is a sell-out." Britain's eurosceptic newspapers backed Johnson's deal, which comes more than three years after Britons voted narrowly to leave the EU in a referendum that has left the country bitterly divided. "Get real... take the deal!" said The Sun's front page, while the Daily Mail went for "He's done his duty. Now MPs must do theirs", and the Daily Express said "Just do it!" Meanwhile, the Financial Times called for a second referendum, while the Labour-supporting Daily Mirror said the best thing about Johnson's deal was that it was better than no deal. The Times urged lawmakers to back the agreement, while The Daily Telegraph said parliament "must not scupper this chance".

British PM Boris Johnson scrambles to sell Brexit deal to MPs

Britain and the European Union reached a last-ditch <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/irish-prime-minister-says-there-are-outstanding-brexit-issues-may-need-more-time-256248">Brexit deal</a> on Thursday, just hours before an EU summit that is expected to give it a seal of approval.&nbsp;

But <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/brexit-deal-at-hand-in-brussels-boris-johnson-struggles-to-win-support-at-home-256400">Prime Minister Boris Johnson</a> will still have to take the accord to a sceptical British parliament for its backing on Saturday, and it is far from certain that it will pass.

Johnson, who has pledged to take Britain out of the EU with or without an agreement, tweeted: "We've got a great new deal that takes back control — now Parliament should get Brexit done on Saturday."

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
We’ve got a great new deal that takes back control — now Parliament should get Brexit done on Saturday so we can move on to other priorities like the cost of living, the NHS, violent crime and our environment <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/GetBrexitDone?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#GetBrexitDone</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TakeBackControl?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TakeBackControl</a>
— Boris Johnson (@BorisJohnson) <a href="https://twitter.com/BorisJohnson/status/1184764798107602944?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 17, 2019</a></blockquote>
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EU officials are pleased they avoided an immediate crisis at the European Council summit, and European Commission President Jean-Claude Juncker recommended that the other 27 EU leaders endorse the deal.

"Where there is a will, there is a deal -- we have one! It's a fair and balanced agreement for the EU and the UK and it is testament to our commitment to find solutions," Juncker tweeted.

The draft agreement was forged just weeks before Britain was due to leave the bloc on October 31, ending more than four decades of close economic and political ties with its nearest neighbours. &nbsp;&nbsp;

Watch: Make-or-break week for Brexit deal

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Chief EU negotiator Michel Barnier said: "We have managed to find solutions that fully respect the integrity of the single market.&nbsp;

"We created a new and legally operative solution to avoid a hard border, and protect peace and stability on the island of Ireland," he said.

"It is a solution that works for the EU, for the UK and for people and businesses in Northern Ireland."

One immediate hurdle is opposition from Johnson's allies in Northern Ireland's Democratic Unionist Party (DUP), which pre-emptively rejected the compromise. &nbsp; &nbsp;

The agreement would see the British-ruled province remain under EU customs and Value Added Tax (VAT) rules, and the loyalist DUP announced that it can not support it.

It is not clear how many of Johnson's Conservative MPs will back the deal, and if the British opposition could vote it down or attempt to force a nationwide referendum to approve or reject it.

Before setting off for Brussels, German Chancellor Angela Merkel noted approvingly that London had been ready to negotiate and put "concrete proposals on the table".

Economic disruption

Under the measures to replace the so-called "Irish backstop" in the previous failed agreement, the plan would see Northern Ireland remain British legal territory but trade under EU regulations.

This is intended to prevent the return of a hard border with EU-member Ireland. But, because it would involve some customs and tax checks with the rest of the UK, it raised the hackles of the DUP. &nbsp; &nbsp;

EU negotiator Michel Barnier was to give a news conference to outline more details of the deal.

But one EU source told AFP the agreement "is politically fragile in London" because of Johnson's reliance on votes from the DUP and Conservative eurosceptics.

The leaders also hope the summit will rise above the Brexit mire and focus on the EU budget debate, bids by North Macedonia and Albania to start talks to join the bloc, and the crisis in relations with Turkey.&nbsp;

The Brexit issue is first on the agenda, with the EU's 27 other leaders to hear Johnson speak then retire to mull their response. But the issue could be delayed to Friday if the deal text needs more work.

&nbsp;

&nbsp;

Britain and the European Union reached a last-ditch Brexit deal on Thursday, just hours before an EU summit that is expected to give it a seal of approval. But Prime Minister Boris Johnson will still have to take the accord to a sceptical British parliament for its backing on Saturday, and it is far from certain that it will pass.

Britain and the European Union reached a last-ditch Brexit deal on Thursday, just hours before an EU summit that is expected to give it a seal of approval. But Prime Minister Boris Johnson will still have to take the accord to a sceptical British parliament for its backing on Saturday, and it is far from certain that it will pass. Johnson, who has pledged to take Britain out of the EU with or without an agreement, tweeted: "We've got a great new deal that takes back control — now Parliament should get Brexit done on Saturday." We’ve got a great new deal that takes back control — now Parliament should get Brexit done on Saturday so we can move on to other priorities like the cost of living, the NHS, violent crime and our environment #GetBrexitDone #TakeBackControl — Boris Johnson (@BorisJohnson) October 17, 2019 × EU officials are pleased they avoided an immediate crisis at the European Council summit, and European Commission President Jean-Claude Juncker recommended that the other 27 EU leaders endorse the deal. "Where there is a will, there is a deal -- we have one! It's a fair and balanced agreement for the EU and the UK and it is testament to our commitment to find solutions," Juncker tweeted. The draft agreement was forged just weeks before Britain was due to leave the bloc on October 31, ending more than four decades of close economic and political ties with its nearest neighbours. Watch: Make-or-break week for Brexit deal × Chief EU negotiator Michel Barnier said: "We have managed to find solutions that fully respect the integrity of the single market. "We created a new and legally operative solution to avoid a hard border, and protect peace and stability on the island of Ireland," he said. "It is a solution that works for the EU, for the UK and for people and businesses in Northern Ireland." One immediate hurdle is opposition from Johnson's allies in Northern Ireland's Democratic Unionist Party (DUP), which pre-emptively rejected the compromise. The agreement would see the British-ruled province remain under EU customs and Value Added Tax (VAT) rules, and the loyalist DUP announced that it can not support it. It is not clear how many of Johnson's Conservative MPs will back the deal, and if the British opposition could vote it down or attempt to force a nationwide referendum to approve or reject it. Before setting off for Brussels, German Chancellor Angela Merkel noted approvingly that London had been ready to negotiate and put "concrete proposals on the table". Economic disruption Under the measures to replace the so-called "Irish backstop" in the previous failed agreement, the plan would see Northern Ireland remain British legal territory but trade under EU regulations. This is intended to prevent the return of a hard border with EU-member Ireland. But, because it would involve some customs and tax checks with the rest of the UK, it raised the hackles of the DUP. EU negotiator Michel Barnier was to give a news conference to outline more details of the deal. But one EU source told AFP the agreement "is politically fragile in London" because of Johnson's reliance on votes from the DUP and Conservative eurosceptics. The leaders also hope the summit will rise above the Brexit mire and focus on the EU budget debate, bids by North Macedonia and Albania to start talks to join the bloc, and the crisis in relations with Turkey. The Brexit issue is first on the agenda, with the EU's 27 other leaders to hear Johnson speak then retire to mull their response. But the issue could be delayed to Friday if the deal text needs more work.

'Great new deal' reached on Brexit: UK PM Boris Johnson

Clocking is ticking for the UK Parliament as 13 days is remaining for the UK to exit from the European Union.

Will EU, UK sign Brexit deal today?

The European Parliament expects the new European Union Commission to start work with at least a month's delay after MEPs rejected three candidate-commissioners, the institution's spokesman said Wednesday.

"Parliament willing to vote on time to allow new Commission to start December 1," spokesman Jaume Duch tweeted. The new Commission had been due to take office on November 1.

Duch added a call for the "rapid appointment of the new three commissioners-designate".

The effective delay means that outgoing <a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/european-union-orders-emergency-anti-trust-measures-against-chip-maker-broadcom-256260">EU president Jean-Claude Juncker's</a> commission will remain in power for at least a month longer than expected.

The postponement came as the new Commission's incoming president, Ursula von der Leyen, cast around for new candidates from France, Hungary and Romania to be put forward to join her 27-strong executive team.

MEPs displayed an unprecedented flexing of muscle during the confirmation hearings for the three original candidates from those countries this month. The MEPs said they were unsuitable to take up their portfolios due to various alleged financial irregularities and other issues.

That made a delay all but inevitable, given EU procedures and the time needed for von der Leyen to accept new candidates, have them grilled in the parliament, and for the new commission to step out as one.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/eurozone-september-inflation-unexpectedly-revised-down-to-08-256241">A European Parliament vote</a> is required as part of the approval process.&nbsp;

But Ska Keller, the co-president of the Green group in the parliament, said: "There will be no vote on the Commission in October, because three commissioners are still missing."

Von der Leyen, formerly Germany's defence minister, has said she aims to lead a "geopolitical Commission" that will be ambitious on tackling climate change, stand up for its place in the world, and "protect the European way of life".

The European Parliament expects the new European Union Commission to start work with at least a month's delay after MEPs rejected three candidate-commissioners, the institution's spokesman said Wednesday.

The European Parliament expects the new European Union Commission to start work with at least a month's delay after MEPs rejected three candidate-commissioners, the institution's spokesman said Wednesday. "Parliament willing to vote on time to allow new Commission to start December 1," spokesman Jaume Duch tweeted. The new Commission had been due to take office on November 1. Duch added a call for the "rapid appointment of the new three commissioners-designate". The effective delay means that outgoing EU president Jean-Claude Juncker's commission will remain in power for at least a month longer than expected. The postponement came as the new Commission's incoming president, Ursula von der Leyen, cast around for new candidates from France, Hungary and Romania to be put forward to join her 27-strong executive team. MEPs displayed an unprecedented flexing of muscle during the confirmation hearings for the three original candidates from those countries this month. The MEPs said they were unsuitable to take up their portfolios due to various alleged financial irregularities and other issues. That made a delay all but inevitable, given EU procedures and the time needed for von der Leyen to accept new candidates, have them grilled in the parliament, and for the new commission to step out as one. A European Parliament vote is required as part of the approval process. But Ska Keller, the co-president of the Green group in the parliament, said: "There will be no vote on the Commission in October, because three commissioners are still missing." Von der Leyen, formerly Germany's defence minister, has said she aims to lead a "geopolitical Commission" that will be ambitious on tackling climate change, stand up for its place in the world, and "protect the European way of life".

New European Union Commission delayed by month

NATO vs NATO in Turkey-EU rift. Watch video to know more.

NATO vs NATO in Turkey-EU rift

Make-or-break week for Brexit deal as 14 days is remaining for the country to exit from the EU. Reaching a divorce deal between Britain and the European Union is still possible this week, even if it more and more difficult, the EU's chief negotiator Michel Barnier said on Tuesday. Watch this video to know more.

Make-or-break week for Brexit deal

Turkey accused the European Union on Monday of protecting "terror elements" by criticising its military offensive against Kurdish militants in Syria.&nbsp;

Turkey is in the sixth day of an assault against Kurdish militants -- key allies of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/big-sanctions-coming-on-turkey-declares-us-president-trump-255891">Western powers in the battle</a> to crush the Islamic State group in northeastern Syria -- an operation condemned by European leaders.&nbsp;

"It is unacceptable for the EU to display an approach that protects terror elements," the foreign ministry said in a statement, shortly after the EU condemned Turkey's operation.&nbsp;

"We totally reject and condemn the decisions and calls made to our country," it added.&nbsp;

The EU had earlier stated that it "condemns Turkey's military action, which seriously undermines the stability and the security of the whole region".

The EU also opened the way to sanctions over Turkey's controversial drilling for hydrocarbons off Cyprus.

"We find it unacceptable," the Turkish foreign ministry said in response.&nbsp;

"Because of its unlawful and biased approach, we will seriously review our cooperation with the EU on some areas," it warned.

The discovery of significant gas reserves around Cyprus has aggravated the political dispute around the island, which has been politically divided since a Turkish invasion in 1974.

Turkey does not recognise maritime agreements signed by Cyprus with other countries in the region, and says it has a right to explore for gas in the area.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

Turkey accused the European Union on Monday of protecting "terror elements" by criticising its military offensive against Kurdish militants in Syria. Turkey is in the sixth day of an assault against Kurdish militants -- key allies of Western powers in the battle to crush the Islamic State group in northeastern Syria -- an operation condemned by European leaders.

Turkey accused the European Union on Monday of protecting "terror elements" by criticising its military offensive against Kurdish militants in Syria. Turkey is in the sixth day of an assault against Kurdish militants -- key allies of Western powers in the battle to crush the Islamic State group in northeastern Syria -- an operation condemned by European leaders. "It is unacceptable for the EU to display an approach that protects terror elements," the foreign ministry said in a statement, shortly after the EU condemned Turkey's operation. "We totally reject and condemn the decisions and calls made to our country," it added. The EU had earlier stated that it "condemns Turkey's military action, which seriously undermines the stability and the security of the whole region". The EU also opened the way to sanctions over Turkey's controversial drilling for hydrocarbons off Cyprus. "We find it unacceptable," the Turkish foreign ministry said in response. "Because of its unlawful and biased approach, we will seriously review our cooperation with the EU on some areas," it warned. The discovery of significant gas reserves around Cyprus has aggravated the political dispute around the island, which has been politically divided since a Turkish invasion in 1974. Turkey does not recognise maritime agreements signed by Cyprus with other countries in the region, and says it has a right to explore for gas in the area.

Turkey says EU shielding 'terror elements' by criticising Syria offensive

EU Council President Donald Tusk on Friday condemned as attempted "blackmail" a<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/erdogan-threatens-eu-with-refugee-influx-if-criticises-syria-operation-255000"> threat by the Turkish president</a> to allow millions of refugees to head to Europe if the bloc criticises Ankara's offensive in Syria.

"Turkey must understand that our main concern is that their actions may lead to another humanitarian catastrophe, which would be unacceptable," Tusk said on a visit to EU member Cyprus.

"Nor will we ever accept that refugees are weaponised and used to blackmail us. That is why I consider yesterday's threats made by President (Recep Tayyip) Erdogan totally out of place," he added.

Erdogan made his comments on Thursday in the face of mounting condemnation from European governments of Ankara's long-threatened operation to enforce a buffer zone in northeastern Syria to accommodate some of the 3.6 million refugees currently living in Turkey.

"Hey EU, wake up. I say it again: if you try to frame our operation there as an invasion, our task is simple: we will open the doors and send 3.6 million migrants to you," the Turkish leader said.

Under a 2016 agreement with the EU, Turkey agreed to prevent refugees from leaving towards Europe in exchange for six billion euros and visa-free travel for its citizens but has frequently criticised the lack of assistance from Brussels.

Tusk condemned Turkey's offensive, launched Wednesday, saying it was "of grave concern and should stop".

"A military intervention will only make matters worse," he added, saying it would exacerbate instability in the region, cause further civilian suffering and displacement as well as undermine the fight against the Islamic State group.

EU Council President Donald Tusk on Friday condemned as attempted "blackmail" a threat by the Turkish president to allow millions of refugees to head to Europe if the bloc criticises Ankara's offensive in Syria.

EU Council President Donald Tusk on Friday condemned as attempted "blackmail" a threat by the Turkish president to allow millions of refugees to head to Europe if the bloc criticises Ankara's offensive in Syria. "Turkey must understand that our main concern is that their actions may lead to another humanitarian catastrophe, which would be unacceptable," Tusk said on a visit to EU member Cyprus. "Nor will we ever accept that refugees are weaponised and used to blackmail us. That is why I consider yesterday's threats made by President (Recep Tayyip) Erdogan totally out of place," he added. Erdogan made his comments on Thursday in the face of mounting condemnation from European governments of Ankara's long-threatened operation to enforce a buffer zone in northeastern Syria to accommodate some of the 3.6 million refugees currently living in Turkey. "Hey EU, wake up. I say it again: if you try to frame our operation there as an invasion, our task is simple: we will open the doors and send 3.6 million migrants to you," the Turkish leader said. Under a 2016 agreement with the EU, Turkey agreed to prevent refugees from leaving towards Europe in exchange for six billion euros and visa-free travel for its citizens but has frequently criticised the lack of assistance from Brussels. Tusk condemned Turkey's offensive, launched Wednesday, saying it was "of grave concern and should stop". "A military intervention will only make matters worse," he added, saying it would exacerbate instability in the region, cause further civilian suffering and displacement as well as undermine the fight against the Islamic State group.

Threats made by Erdogan totally out of place: EU President Donald Tusk

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/irish-pm-says-very-difficult-to-secure-brexit-deal-by-next-week-254692">The European Union is ready to make a 'major concession'&nbsp;on a Brexit deal</a> by offering a mechanism for the Northern Irish assembly to leave a new so-called backstop after a number of years, The Times newspaper reported on Wednesday.

Talks with the EU to reach an agreement on Britain's departure have&nbsp;hit an impasse over the backstop, an insurance policy to prevent the return to a hard border between the British province of Northern Ireland and EU member Ireland if a future trade deal falls short of keeping the border open.

Johnson says he wants to remove what he calls the 'undemocratic backstop'&nbsp;and has proposed replacing it by suggesting that Northern Ireland stay under EU regulations, customs checks should be made away from the border, and that Northern Ireland's assembly, Stormont, would have the right to vote on the arrangements.

But Brussels fears handing Northern Ireland 'consent'&nbsp;would give Johnson's allies, the Democratic Unionist Party, a veto.

The new idea, as reported by the Times, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/johnson-faces-cabinet-revolt-over-no-deal-brexit-report-254678">would be a modified version of the consent principle</a>.

Citing diplomatic sources close to the talks, the Times said European governments were prepared to "concede a unilateral revocation of the withdrawal treaty by Stormont after a period of time. The date of 2025 has been mooted, as long as both communities agree to it.''

A European source was quoted by the Times as saying: "A landing zone on consent could be a double majority within Stormont, to leave, not to continue with the arrangements after X years."

The European Union is ready to make a 'major concession' on a Brexit deal by offering a mechanism for the Northern Irish assembly to leave a new so-called backstop after a number of years, The Times newspaper reported on Wednesday.

The European Union is ready to make a 'major concession' on a Brexit deal by offering a mechanism for the Northern Irish assembly to leave a new so-called backstop after a number of years, The Times newspaper reported on Wednesday. Talks with the EU to reach an agreement on Britain's departure have hit an impasse over the backstop, an insurance policy to prevent the return to a hard border between the British province of Northern Ireland and EU member Ireland if a future trade deal falls short of keeping the border open. Johnson says he wants to remove what he calls the 'undemocratic backstop' and has proposed replacing it by suggesting that Northern Ireland stay under EU regulations, customs checks should be made away from the border, and that Northern Ireland's assembly, Stormont, would have the right to vote on the arrangements. But Brussels fears handing Northern Ireland 'consent' would give Johnson's allies, the Democratic Unionist Party, a veto. The new idea, as reported by the Times, would be a modified version of the consent principle. Citing diplomatic sources close to the talks, the Times said European governments were prepared to "concede a unilateral revocation of the withdrawal treaty by Stormont after a period of time. The date of 2025 has been mooted, as long as both communities agree to it.'' A European source was quoted by the Times as saying: "A landing zone on consent could be a double majority within Stormont, to leave, not to continue with the arrangements after X years."

EU ready to make 'major concession' on Brexit deal: Report

European Commission President Jean-Claude Juncker on Wednesday (October 9) called on Turkey to stop its military operation in northeast Syria, adding it could not lead to 'good results.' Watch this video to know more.

WION Dispatch: EU urges Turkey to show restraint

Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan warned the European Union (EU) on Thursday that Ankara would allow millions of refugees to head to Europe if the bloc criticised Turkey's military offensive in Syria.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-expresses-deep-concern-over-turkeys-attack-on-syria-calls-it-unilateral-254989">India expresses deep concern over Turkey's attack on Syria, calls it 'unilateral'</a>

"Hey EU, wake up. I say it again: if you try to frame our operation there as an invasion, our task is simple: we will open the doors and send 3.6 million migrants to you," Erdogan said in a speech to his party.

Turkey launched an operation into Syrian territory on Wednesday, aimed at combating Kurdish militants tied to insurgents in its own territory.

Erdogan said 109 "terrorists" had been killed so far in the operation, which would soon cover ground from Manbij in northern Syria to the Iraqi border some 350 kilometres (220 miles) east.

"God willing, we will crush these snakes' heads quickly," he said.

"What we are trying to do is prevent the establishment of a terrorist state on our southern border. This cannot happen,"

Turkey currently hosts 3.6 million refugees from the eight-year conflict in Syria -- the highest number in the world.&nbsp;

Under a 2016 agreement with the EU, Turkey agreed to prevent refugees from leaving towards Europe in exchange for six billion euros and visa-free travel for its citizens, but has frequently criticised the lack of assistance from Brussels.

"You have never been sincere," Erdogan said, addressing the EU.&nbsp;

"Now they say they will withhold three billion euros from us. Have you ever kept any promise you gave us so far? No."

One aim of the military operation is to establish a "safe zone" in which at least one million Syrian refugees can be repatriated, after the long-term presence of refugees became an increasingly political liability.

"For those who want to return to their country but don't have a home left anymore, we plan to build settlements for one million people, with international financing," Erdogan said.

He also sought to assuage concerns regarding Islamic State prisoners currently held by Kurdish forces.&nbsp;

"Those that need to be kept in jail we will keep in jail. We will return foreigners to their home countries if they accept them back," he said.
<img alt="Map war zone" data-align="center" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="d6b45af3-93a2-48d6-8565-28a4ebe7b6a0" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/MAP_WAR_ZONE.jpg" />
Turkey's 'Safe Zone' in Syria

Turkey has begun ground offensive in Syria and has been threatening to launch a military operation in SDF-held territory to create a 480km "safe zone" (marked in red on the map) running for 480km along the Syrian side of the Turkish border.

The Turkish offensive began on 9 October with airstrikes in Tel Abyad and Ras al-Ayn (marked along the red area in the map), in an operation called #OperationPeaceSpring by Recep Tayyip Erdogan.

Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF), formed in 2015 was&nbsp;an alliance between the biggest Kurdish militia, the People's Protection Units (YPG) in Northern Syria with local Arab militias.

Kurds make up between 7 per cent&nbsp;and 10 per cent&nbsp;of Syria's population and Kurdish militias have largely operated from Northern Syria in offensives against ISIS occupation.

 
&nbsp;

Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan warned the European Union (EU) on Thursday that Ankara would allow millions of refugees to head to Europe if the bloc criticised Turkey's military offensive in Syria.

Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan warned the European Union (EU) on Thursday that Ankara would allow millions of refugees to head to Europe if the bloc criticised Turkey's military offensive in Syria. Also read: India expresses deep concern over Turkey's attack on Syria, calls it 'unilateral' "Hey EU, wake up. I say it again: if you try to frame our operation there as an invasion, our task is simple: we will open the doors and send 3.6 million migrants to you," Erdogan said in a speech to his party. Turkey launched an operation into Syrian territory on Wednesday, aimed at combating Kurdish militants tied to insurgents in its own territory. Erdogan said 109 "terrorists" had been killed so far in the operation, which would soon cover ground from Manbij in northern Syria to the Iraqi border some 350 kilometres (220 miles) east. "God willing, we will crush these snakes' heads quickly," he said. "What we are trying to do is prevent the establishment of a terrorist state on our southern border. This cannot happen," Turkey currently hosts 3.6 million refugees from the eight-year conflict in Syria -- the highest number in the world. Under a 2016 agreement with the EU, Turkey agreed to prevent refugees from leaving towards Europe in exchange for six billion euros and visa-free travel for its citizens, but has frequently criticised the lack of assistance from Brussels. "You have never been sincere," Erdogan said, addressing the EU. "Now they say they will withhold three billion euros from us. Have you ever kept any promise you gave us so far? No." One aim of the military operation is to establish a "safe zone" in which at least one million Syrian refugees can be repatriated, after the long-term presence of refugees became an increasingly political liability. "For those who want to return to their country but don't have a home left anymore, we plan to build settlements for one million people, with international financing," Erdogan said. He also sought to assuage concerns regarding Islamic State prisoners currently held by Kurdish forces. "Those that need to be kept in jail we will keep in jail. We will return foreigners to their home countries if they accept them back," he said. Turkey's 'Safe Zone' in Syria Turkey has begun ground offensive in Syria and has been threatening to launch a military operation in SDF-held territory to create a 480km "safe zone" (marked in red on the map) running for 480km along the Syrian side of the Turkish border. The Turkish offensive began on 9 October with airstrikes in Tel Abyad and Ras al-Ayn (marked along the red area in the map), in an operation called #OperationPeaceSpring by Recep Tayyip Erdogan. Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF), formed in 2015 was an alliance between the biggest Kurdish militia, the People's Protection Units (YPG) in Northern Syria with local Arab militias. Kurds make up between 7 per cent and 10 per cent of Syria's population and Kurdish militias have largely operated from Northern Syria in offensives against ISIS occupation.

Erdogan threatens European Union with refugee influx if it criticises Syria operation

The European Union told British Prime Minister Boris Johnson he must make <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/eu-ready-to-make-major-concession-on-brexit-deal-the-times-newspaper-254717">significant concessions</a> if he wants to strike a last-minute Brexit deal.

As the clock ticks down to the October 31 departure date, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/irish-pm-says-very-difficult-to-secure-brexit-deal-by-next-week-254692">Brexit descended into a public</a> row between London and Brussels this week as both sides position for another delay followed by an election in Britain or an acrimonious divorce.

After a Downing Street source said a Brexit deal was essentially impossible because German Chancellor Angela Merkel had made unacceptable demands, the EU accused Johnson of playing a "stupid blame game".

The EU's chief Brexit negotiator, Michel Barnier, said striking a Brexit deal ahead of October 31 would be "very difficult" and the bloc could not accept Johnson's proposals. He added that a deal was "still possible."

"To put things frankly, we are not really in a position to be able to find agreement with the UK," Barnier told the European Parliament. He said he would be available 24x7 in the coming days to try to strike a deal.

European Commission President Jean-Claude Juncker said he was working for a Brexit deal, which he also said was still possible.

"I don't accept this blame game that started in London. Personally, I don't exclude a deal," Juncker told the European Parliament's plenary session.

"The risk of a no-deal remains real and basically is going to come down to a decision by the UK government, but will never be the choice - the preferred option - of the European Union."

The European Union's two most powerful leaders, Germany's Merkel and France's Emmanuel Macron, will meet at the Elysee Palace this Sunday ahead of an October 17-18 EU summit, Macron's office said.

"I'm still cautiously, cautiously optimistic," Johnson said.

EU diplomats, though, are sceptical about the chances of a deal. Most expect Johnson to be forced to accept a delay to Brexit - a step that could ultimately lead to either a disorderly exit or the reversal of the entire Brexit endeavour.

"There will be no rabbit-out-of-the-hat solutions," one EU official said. "There will be more talks and more political contacts. But, for the time being, there is no breakthrough to be reported."

Johnson has repeatedly cast the EU summit next week as the last chance for the EU to strike a deal or face the disruption of a no-deal Brexit that would divide the West, threaten the unity of the United Kingdom and roil financial markets.

A week ago, he proposed a possible solution to ensure the border between the British-ruled province of Northern Ireland and EU member Ireland does not become a backdoor into the EU's single market and customs union.

Short of an last-minute breakthrough, Johnson will have to decide whether to accept another delay or to go for a no-deal Brexit and get around a law demanding he extend.

In the fevered atmosphere surrounding Brexit where newspaper reports and contradictory tweets can send sterling into gyrations, EU officials denied a report in The Times that the bloc was preparing a major concession to Britain to secure a deal.

"Unfortunately, no bold new offer is coming from the EU side at this stage," an EU official said.

Britain's Brexit minister, Steve Barclay, was due to have lunch with EU chief Brexit negotiator, Michel Barnier, on Thursday.

Behind the rhetoric, the Brexit finale will ultimately be decided by Merkel, Macron, Johnson, European Commission President Jean-Claude Juncker and Irish Prime Minister Leo Varadkar - all of whom say they want an orderly exit.

Johnson and Varadkar are due to meet on Thursday.

With chances of a deal receding, focus was turning back to British domestic politics, where Johnson is under intense pressure from opponents to delay Brexit.

Anti-Brexit campaigners claimed victory after Scotland's highest court decided on Wednesday to wait before ruling whether to force Johnson to seek a delay to Britain's EU divorce date if he has not struck a deal in the next 10 days.

The European Union told British Prime Minister Boris Johnson he must make significant concessions if he wants to strike a last-minute Brexit deal. As the clock ticks down to the October 31 departure date, Brexit descended into a public row between London and Brussels this week as both sides position for another delay followed by an election in Britain or an acrimonious divorce.

The European Union told British Prime Minister Boris Johnson he must make significant concessions if he wants to strike a last-minute Brexit deal. As the clock ticks down to the October 31 departure date, Brexit descended into a public row between London and Brussels this week as both sides position for another delay followed by an election in Britain or an acrimonious divorce. After a Downing Street source said a Brexit deal was essentially impossible because German Chancellor Angela Merkel had made unacceptable demands, the EU accused Johnson of playing a "stupid blame game". The EU's chief Brexit negotiator, Michel Barnier, said striking a Brexit deal ahead of October 31 would be "very difficult" and the bloc could not accept Johnson's proposals. He added that a deal was "still possible." "To put things frankly, we are not really in a position to be able to find agreement with the UK," Barnier told the European Parliament. He said he would be available 24x7 in the coming days to try to strike a deal. European Commission President Jean-Claude Juncker said he was working for a Brexit deal, which he also said was still possible. "I don't accept this blame game that started in London. Personally, I don't exclude a deal," Juncker told the European Parliament's plenary session. "The risk of a no-deal remains real and basically is going to come down to a decision by the UK government, but will never be the choice - the preferred option - of the European Union." The European Union's two most powerful leaders, Germany's Merkel and France's Emmanuel Macron, will meet at the Elysee Palace this Sunday ahead of an October 17-18 EU summit, Macron's office said. "I'm still cautiously, cautiously optimistic," Johnson said. EU diplomats, though, are sceptical about the chances of a deal. Most expect Johnson to be forced to accept a delay to Brexit - a step that could ultimately lead to either a disorderly exit or the reversal of the entire Brexit endeavour. "There will be no rabbit-out-of-the-hat solutions," one EU official said. "There will be more talks and more political contacts. But, for the time being, there is no breakthrough to be reported." Johnson has repeatedly cast the EU summit next week as the last chance for the EU to strike a deal or face the disruption of a no-deal Brexit that would divide the West, threaten the unity of the United Kingdom and roil financial markets. A week ago, he proposed a possible solution to ensure the border between the British-ruled province of Northern Ireland and EU member Ireland does not become a backdoor into the EU's single market and customs union. Short of an last-minute breakthrough, Johnson will have to decide whether to accept another delay or to go for a no-deal Brexit and get around a law demanding he extend. In the fevered atmosphere surrounding Brexit where newspaper reports and contradictory tweets can send sterling into gyrations, EU officials denied a report in The Times that the bloc was preparing a major concession to Britain to secure a deal. "Unfortunately, no bold new offer is coming from the EU side at this stage," an EU official said. Britain's Brexit minister, Steve Barclay, was due to have lunch with EU chief Brexit negotiator, Michel Barnier, on Thursday. Behind the rhetoric, the Brexit finale will ultimately be decided by Merkel, Macron, Johnson, European Commission President Jean-Claude Juncker and Irish Prime Minister Leo Varadkar - all of whom say they want an orderly exit. Johnson and Varadkar are due to meet on Thursday. With chances of a deal receding, focus was turning back to British domestic politics, where Johnson is under intense pressure from opponents to delay Brexit. Anti-Brexit campaigners claimed victory after Scotland's highest court decided on Wednesday to wait before ruling whether to force Johnson to seek a delay to Britain's EU divorce date if he has not struck a deal in the next 10 days.

Make significant concessions if you want Brexit deal: EU to British PM Johnson

Britain's Brexit Secretary Steve Barclay will meet European Union chief negotiator Michel Barnier in Brussels on Thursday, as talks on the country's exit from the bloc reach a critical stage, Downing Street said.

"They will discuss the state of play following a week of technical talks," the spokesman from Prime Minister Boris Johnson's office said on Wednesday.

Johnson is expected to meet&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/irish-pm-says-very-difficult-to-secure-brexit-deal-by-next-week-254692">Irish Prime Minister</a> Leo Varadkar later this week to discuss the Irish border -&nbsp;the thorniest issue in the talks.

Brussels and London have only a few days left to secure agreement on Britain's exit terms before a crucial summit of EU leaders on October 17 and 18.

Britain is due to leave the EU on October 31 and Johnson insists he will keep to that deadline.

However, a law passed by rebel MPs would force him to ask to delay Brexit if he has not reached a deal in time -&nbsp;something he says he will not do.

The government is planning to hold a special Saturday session of parliament on October 19, the day after the EU summit, whether or note there is a deal.

Tempers frayed on both sides of the Channel on Tuesday after a testy phone call between Johnson and German Chancellor Angela Merkel.

Downing Street sources briefed that Merkel's intransigence meant the talks were close to breaking down, and European Council President Donald Tusk accused Johnson of playing a "stupid blame game".

Britain's Brexit Secretary Steve Barclay will meet European Union chief negotiator Michel Barnier in Brussels on Thursday, as talks on the country's exit from the bloc reach a critical stage, Downing Street said.

Britain's Brexit Secretary Steve Barclay will meet European Union chief negotiator Michel Barnier in Brussels on Thursday, as talks on the country's exit from the bloc reach a critical stage, Downing Street said. "They will discuss the state of play following a week of technical talks," the spokesman from Prime Minister Boris Johnson's office said on Wednesday. Johnson is expected to meet Irish Prime Minister Leo Varadkar later this week to discuss the Irish border - the thorniest issue in the talks. Brussels and London have only a few days left to secure agreement on Britain's exit terms before a crucial summit of EU leaders on October 17 and 18. Britain is due to leave the EU on October 31 and Johnson insists he will keep to that deadline. However, a law passed by rebel MPs would force him to ask to delay Brexit if he has not reached a deal in time - something he says he will not do. The government is planning to hold a special Saturday session of parliament on October 19, the day after the EU summit, whether or note there is a deal. Tempers frayed on both sides of the Channel on Tuesday after a testy phone call between Johnson and German Chancellor Angela Merkel. Downing Street sources briefed that Merkel's intransigence meant the talks were close to breaking down, and European Council President Donald Tusk accused Johnson of playing a "stupid blame game".

United Kingdom Brexit minister to meet European Union negotiator on Thursday

Brexit talks between Britain and the European Union teetered on the verge of collapse on Tuesday, with tit-for-tat claims of intransigence and sabotage before an end-of-the-month deadline.

Prime Minister Boris Johnson spoke to German Chancellor Angela Merkel as he tried to salvage new divorce terms he had proposed ahead of next week's pivotal EU leaders' summit in Brussels.

Breaking with convention, Downing Street then provided a readout of what Merkel allegedly said, provoking an incendiary tweet from EU Council President Donald Tusk.

According to the London source, Merkel demanded a rewrite of Britain's approach to the long-vexing Irish border problem that made a compromise "essentially impossible".

A deal now looked "overwhelmingly unlikely" and talks were "close to breaking down", the source added.

Britain has been trying for more than three years to find a way to deliver on UK voters' wishes and end its almost five-decade involvement in the European project.

Riding a wave of British frustrations with the saga, Johnson is threatening to leave at any cost -- with or without a withdrawal deal -- on October 31.

In Berlin, Merkel's office said it would not comment "on such confidential discussions". Johnson's official spokesman also declined to comment on the substance of the call.

But he told reporters the pair had a "frank exchange" -- diplomatic speak for a disagreement.

The spokesman rejected Tusk's accusation that Johnson was playing "some stupid blame game" by having his office leak out the detail of private talks.

A frustrated Tusk had accused <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/at-stake-is-not-winning-some-stupid-blame-game-tusk-to-pm-johnson-on-brexit-254552">Britain of playing with "the future of Europe and the UK"</a> with no clear plan of what the country wanted.

Irish Deputy Prime Minister Simon Coveney said he found it "hard to disagree" with Tusk, stressing that Dublin would "not strike a deal at any cost".

No deal planning

Although Johnson's Brexit negotiators were still meeting various European officials, much of the focus is shifting to what happens after the talks are formally pronounced dead.

The Irish government published a 2020 spending plan with a $1.3 billion&nbsp;relief fund based on the assumption that there will be no agreement.

The UK government also released updated preparations for a "no deal" exit at the end of the month, indicating it was increasingly expecting the outcome.&nbsp;

The Institute for Fiscal Studies think-tank, however, warned that "even a relatively benign no-deal Brexit" would see Britain's debt burden surge to 50-year highs.

On the markets, the pound slipped to its lowest value against the euro in about a month.

Johnson, who took over from Theresa May in July, has been accused of political manoeuvring before calling a snap general election to strengthen his position in parliament.&nbsp;

On Tuesday the government suspended the legislature from Wednesday until October 14, when Queen Elizabeth II will set out the government's legislative domestic agenda.

Border dispute

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/brexit-deal-is-essentially-impossible-ever-downing-street-source-254498">Johnson's proposals outline a new way to avoid a hard border between EU member the Republic of Ireland and Northern Ireland after Brexit.</a>

It would take the British province of Northern Ireland out of the EU's customs union but keep it largely aligned with the bloc's "single market" standards and regulations.

EU officials said this would not remove the need for customs checks -- a deal-breaker because it jeopardises the 1998 Good Friday Agreement that ended three decades of sectarian violence in Northern Ireland.

That agreement effectively created an invisible border between north and south, satisfying republicans who want a united Ireland and unionists who want to keep the status quo.

Keeping the border open and free-flowing has long been the main sticking point in the talks.

Downing Street officials say Brussels is making a big mistake because failure in the coming days to reach a deal would result in Britain's position only hardening down the line.

Another delay

One source in Johnson's office told The Spectator magazine the government will try to "do all sorts of things" to prevent another Brexit delay should negotiations really collapse.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/uk-economy-starts-to-shows-cracks-under-brexit-and-global-strains-254409">Scotland's top civil court is due to rule Wednesday whether someone else - possibly a judge - could sign an extension request if Johnson fails to follow parliament's order to ask for one if there is still no deal by October 19.</a>

But should a delay still be granted at the EU summit, Johnson will campaign for a "no-deal" in an election, the Downing Street source told The Spectator, which supports the ruling Conservative party.

The Spectator's source also lashed out at Irish Prime Minister Leo Varadkar, saying he had "gone back on his commitments" since parliament passed the law demanding a delay in case of no-deal.

"As things stand, Dublin will do nothing, hoping we offer more," the source said.

Brexit talks between Britain and the European Union teetered on the verge of collapse on Tuesday, with tit-for-tat claims of intransigence and sabotage before an end-of-the-month deadline.

Brexit talks between Britain and the European Union teetered on the verge of collapse on Tuesday, with tit-for-tat claims of intransigence and sabotage before an end-of-the-month deadline. Prime Minister Boris Johnson spoke to German Chancellor Angela Merkel as he tried to salvage new divorce terms he had proposed ahead of next week's pivotal EU leaders' summit in Brussels. Breaking with convention, Downing Street then provided a readout of what Merkel allegedly said, provoking an incendiary tweet from EU Council President Donald Tusk. According to the London source, Merkel demanded a rewrite of Britain's approach to the long-vexing Irish border problem that made a compromise "essentially impossible". A deal now looked "overwhelmingly unlikely" and talks were "close to breaking down", the source added. Britain has been trying for more than three years to find a way to deliver on UK voters' wishes and end its almost five-decade involvement in the European project. Riding a wave of British frustrations with the saga, Johnson is threatening to leave at any cost -- with or without a withdrawal deal -- on October 31. In Berlin, Merkel's office said it would not comment "on such confidential discussions". Johnson's official spokesman also declined to comment on the substance of the call. But he told reporters the pair had a "frank exchange" -- diplomatic speak for a disagreement. The spokesman rejected Tusk's accusation that Johnson was playing "some stupid blame game" by having his office leak out the detail of private talks. A frustrated Tusk had accused Britain of playing with "the future of Europe and the UK" with no clear plan of what the country wanted. Irish Deputy Prime Minister Simon Coveney said he found it "hard to disagree" with Tusk, stressing that Dublin would "not strike a deal at any cost". No deal planning Although Johnson's Brexit negotiators were still meeting various European officials, much of the focus is shifting to what happens after the talks are formally pronounced dead. The Irish government published a 2020 spending plan with a $1.3 billion relief fund based on the assumption that there will be no agreement. The UK government also released updated preparations for a "no deal" exit at the end of the month, indicating it was increasingly expecting the outcome. The Institute for Fiscal Studies think-tank, however, warned that "even a relatively benign no-deal Brexit" would see Britain's debt burden surge to 50-year highs. On the markets, the pound slipped to its lowest value against the euro in about a month. Johnson, who took over from Theresa May in July, has been accused of political manoeuvring before calling a snap general election to strengthen his position in parliament. On Tuesday the government suspended the legislature from Wednesday until October 14, when Queen Elizabeth II will set out the government's legislative domestic agenda. Border dispute Johnson's proposals outline a new way to avoid a hard border between EU member the Republic of Ireland and Northern Ireland after Brexit. It would take the British province of Northern Ireland out of the EU's customs union but keep it largely aligned with the bloc's "single market" standards and regulations. EU officials said this would not remove the need for customs checks -- a deal-breaker because it jeopardises the 1998 Good Friday Agreement that ended three decades of sectarian violence in Northern Ireland. That agreement effectively created an invisible border between north and south, satisfying republicans who want a united Ireland and unionists who want to keep the status quo. Keeping the border open and free-flowing has long been the main sticking point in the talks. Downing Street officials say Brussels is making a big mistake because failure in the coming days to reach a deal would result in Britain's position only hardening down the line. Another delay One source in Johnson's office told The Spectator magazine the government will try to "do all sorts of things" to prevent another Brexit delay should negotiations really collapse. Scotland's top civil court is due to rule Wednesday whether someone else - possibly a judge - could sign an extension request if Johnson fails to follow parliament's order to ask for one if there is still no deal by October 19. But should a delay still be granted at the EU summit, Johnson will campaign for a "no-deal" in an election, the Downing Street source told The Spectator, which supports the ruling Conservative party. The Spectator's source also lashed out at Irish Prime Minister Leo Varadkar, saying he had "gone back on his commitments" since parliament passed the law demanding a delay in case of no-deal. "As things stand, Dublin will do nothing, hoping we offer more," the source said.

Britain's Brexit talks with EU teeter on verge of collapse

Britain is open to some flexibility on the mechanism that would allow lawmakers in Northern Ireland to decide whether the British province remains in regulatory alignment with the European Union, as set out in London's latest Brexit proposals, Brexit Secretary Stephen Barclay said on Sunday.

The 500 km&nbsp;border between Northern Ireland and European Union member Ireland, which will be the United Kingdom's only land frontier with the bloc after it leaves, has become the biggest sticking point of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/brexit-minister-hints-united-kingdom-could-soften-stances-in-european-union-talks-254066">Brexit negotiations</a>.

The problem is how to prevent Northern Ireland becoming a "back door" into the EU's single market and customs union without erecting border controls that could undermine the 1998 Good Friday Agreement, which ended decades of political and sectarian violence in Northern Ireland in which more than 3,600 people were killed.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/united-kingdom-prime-minister-boris-johnson-to-unveil-final-brexit-offer-to-european-union-253189">British Prime Minister Boris Johnson has said he cannot accept the so-called backstop arrangement</a> included in the Withdrawal Agreement negotiated with the EU by his predecessor Theresa May, which British lawmakers rejected three times.

He made what he called a final Brexit offer to the European Union on Wednesday which centres on replacing the backstop with a proposal for an all-island regulatory zone to cover all goods.

The proposal also says the legislative assembly in Northern Ireland, which has been suspended since 2017, would have the right to decide every four years whether it wants to continue to abide by EU rules on traded goods.

The European Union and Ireland, however, said the proposals were unlikely to result in a deal without more concessions.

Irish Prime Minister Leo Varadkar said he did not fully understand how the British proposals might work and that Dublin could not sign up to a treaty that did not safeguard an open Irish-British border.

The government acknowledged for the first time on Friday&nbsp;that <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/united-kingdom-prime-minister-johnson-to-submit-brexit-grand-bargain-but-ireland-sceptical-253001">Johnson will send a letter to the EU</a> asking for a Brexit delay if no divorce deal has been reached.

Speaking to BBC's Andrew Marr, Latvian Prime Minister Krisjanis Karins said he didn't think there would be "massive resistance" within the EU against the delay because "all minds are interested on finding a deal."

Britain is open to some flexibility on the mechanism that would allow lawmakers in Northern Ireland to decide whether the British province remains in regulatory alignment with the European Union, as set out in London's latest Brexit proposals, Brexit Secretary Stephen Barclay said on Sunday.

Britain is open to some flexibility on the mechanism that would allow lawmakers in Northern Ireland to decide whether the British province remains in regulatory alignment with the European Union, as set out in London's latest Brexit proposals, Brexit Secretary Stephen Barclay said on Sunday. The 500 km border between Northern Ireland and European Union member Ireland, which will be the United Kingdom's only land frontier with the bloc after it leaves, has become the biggest sticking point of Brexit negotiations. The problem is how to prevent Northern Ireland becoming a "back door" into the EU's single market and customs union without erecting border controls that could undermine the 1998 Good Friday Agreement, which ended decades of political and sectarian violence in Northern Ireland in which more than 3,600 people were killed. British Prime Minister Boris Johnson has said he cannot accept the so-called backstop arrangement included in the Withdrawal Agreement negotiated with the EU by his predecessor Theresa May, which British lawmakers rejected three times. He made what he called a final Brexit offer to the European Union on Wednesday which centres on replacing the backstop with a proposal for an all-island regulatory zone to cover all goods. The proposal also says the legislative assembly in Northern Ireland, which has been suspended since 2017, would have the right to decide every four years whether it wants to continue to abide by EU rules on traded goods. The European Union and Ireland, however, said the proposals were unlikely to result in a deal without more concessions. Irish Prime Minister Leo Varadkar said he did not fully understand how the British proposals might work and that Dublin could not sign up to a treaty that did not safeguard an open Irish-British border. The government acknowledged for the first time on Friday that Johnson will send a letter to the EU asking for a Brexit delay if no divorce deal has been reached. Speaking to BBC's Andrew Marr, Latvian Prime Minister Krisjanis Karins said he didn't think there would be "massive resistance" within the EU against the delay because "all minds are interested on finding a deal."

Flexibility to Northern Ireland leaders on regulatory alignment with European Union possible

Brexit Secretary Stephen Barclay suggested Sunday that Britain is open to compromise with the European Union over new United Kingdom proposals for Northern Ireland, but urged Brussels to show "creativity and flexibility".

Barclay reiterated <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/european-union-presses-uk-to-resubmit-brexit-plan-as-end-game-looms-254002">Prime Minister Boris Johnson's latest plans for a managed withdrawal from the bloc on October 31</a> were "a broad landing zone" ahead of "intense negotiations in the coming days".&nbsp;

"We need to get into the intensive negotiations... to clarify what the deal is," Barclay told the BBC.&nbsp;

"We've set out very serious proposals including a compromise on our side... We now need to see creativity and flexibility on the EU side in order to reach that deal", he added.

However, the European Union have reacted tepidly to the plans and urged London to offer a revised, viable way forward.

The two sides will resume crunch talks Monday, with time running out ahead of a crucial EU summit on October 17-18.

"If the offer from the UK turns out to be a take-it-or-leave-it, it's going to be very difficult I see in agreeing," Latvian Prime Minister Krisjanis Karins told the BBC on Sunday.

"It's fully dependent on the will of Mr Johnson because from the European side, we're always open and looking towards a deal."

'No more dither'

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/eu-and-ireland-sceptical-of-a-brexit-breakthrough-after-pm-johnsons-offer-253849">The British proposals submitted to Brussels on Wednesday</a> centre on how to manage the post-Brexit border between British province Northern Ireland and EU member Ireland.

Johnson wants Northern Ireland's devolved assembly - which has been suspended for almost three years - to vote every four years on whether to maintain EU rather than British regulations there.

He has also proposed the province leaves the EU's customs union along with the rest of Britain, with required checks to rely on untried technology and carried out away from the sensitive border.

Brussels has said the plans "do not provide a basis for concluding an agreement".

It sees the potential for rampant smuggling while Ireland is concerned hardline Northern Irish unionists would have an effective veto.&nbsp;

Barclay hinted that Britain could be willing to consider alternatives to the role of Northern Irish assembly to break the deadlock.

"We can obviously... discuss that mechanism, but the key issue is the principle of consent to any regulatory zone," he said.

Similarly, on the thorny issue of customs, the Brexit Secretary struck a conciliatory note.

"In the detail of the negotiations, of course, we can get into the detail as to how operationally they work, what legal certainty is required," he said.

Barclay will travel to Amsterdam later Sunday for Brexit talks while Johnson has been phoning European leaders this weekend to sell his plans.

In identical articles for two Brexit-backing British tabloids, Johnson called for EU flexibility and reiterated that the country will leave the bloc later this month with or without a deal.

"They should be under no illusions or misapprehensions," he wrote in the Sunday Express.

"There will be no more dither or delay. <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/boris-johnson-tells-court-he-may-seek-brexit-delay-documents-253806">On October 31 we are going to get Brexit done</a>", he added.

Brexit Secretary Stephen Barclay suggested Sunday that Britain is open to compromise with the European Union over new United Kingdom proposals for Northern Ireland, but urged Brussels to show "creativity and flexibility".

Brexit Secretary Stephen Barclay suggested Sunday that Britain is open to compromise with the European Union over new United Kingdom proposals for Northern Ireland, but urged Brussels to show "creativity and flexibility". Barclay reiterated Prime Minister Boris Johnson's latest plans for a managed withdrawal from the bloc on October 31 were "a broad landing zone" ahead of "intense negotiations in the coming days". "We need to get into the intensive negotiations... to clarify what the deal is," Barclay told the BBC. "We've set out very serious proposals including a compromise on our side... We now need to see creativity and flexibility on the EU side in order to reach that deal", he added. However, the European Union have reacted tepidly to the plans and urged London to offer a revised, viable way forward. The two sides will resume crunch talks Monday, with time running out ahead of a crucial EU summit on October 17-18. "If the offer from the UK turns out to be a take-it-or-leave-it, it's going to be very difficult I see in agreeing," Latvian Prime Minister Krisjanis Karins told the BBC on Sunday. "It's fully dependent on the will of Mr Johnson because from the European side, we're always open and looking towards a deal." 'No more dither' The British proposals submitted to Brussels on Wednesday centre on how to manage the post-Brexit border between British province Northern Ireland and EU member Ireland. Johnson wants Northern Ireland's devolved assembly - which has been suspended for almost three years - to vote every four years on whether to maintain EU rather than British regulations there. He has also proposed the province leaves the EU's customs union along with the rest of Britain, with required checks to rely on untried technology and carried out away from the sensitive border. Brussels has said the plans "do not provide a basis for concluding an agreement". It sees the potential for rampant smuggling while Ireland is concerned hardline Northern Irish unionists would have an effective veto. Barclay hinted that Britain could be willing to consider alternatives to the role of Northern Irish assembly to break the deadlock. "We can obviously... discuss that mechanism, but the key issue is the principle of consent to any regulatory zone," he said. Similarly, on the thorny issue of customs, the Brexit Secretary struck a conciliatory note. "In the detail of the negotiations, of course, we can get into the detail as to how operationally they work, what legal certainty is required," he said. Barclay will travel to Amsterdam later Sunday for Brexit talks while Johnson has been phoning European leaders this weekend to sell his plans. In identical articles for two Brexit-backing British tabloids, Johnson called for EU flexibility and reiterated that the country will leave the bloc later this month with or without a deal. "They should be under no illusions or misapprehensions," he wrote in the Sunday Express. "There will be no more dither or delay. On October 31 we are going to get Brexit done", he added.

Brexit minister hints United Kingdom could soften stances in European Union talks

UK PM Boris Johnson will send a letter to EU asking for Brexit Delay.

Is a Brexit Delay Inevitable?

The police in Northern Ireland will not staff border security after <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uk-not-eu-needs-to-do-more-work-on-brexit-offer-brussels-253520">Brexit</a>, the Police Service of Northern Ireland's chief constable said on Thursday.

"We will, of course, police the border as normal. But if the underpinning assumption is that you will see armed officers effectively staffing checkpoints in various parts of the border area, no," Simon Byrne said in comments reported by the Irish Times

"You're not going to see lines of Land Rovers waving vehicles over with PSNI people checking documents, goods, the back of white vans and so on."

The chief constable told a public meeting of the Northern Ireland Policing Board that he will ask the British government for 300 additional officers to bring the force's strength to 7,500, at a cost of 40 million pounds ($49.31 million).

The extra officers are in addition to 200 officers who are expected to be in place by March. A further 200 are to be redeployed from other duties to Brexit-related operations.

Byrne also told the board members that he was clear with the Northern Ireland Office that it will not be up to the Police Service of Northern Ireland to staff any border security.

"We are clearly there to facilitate normality and day-to-day policing, but not to carry out customs checks and the function of other agencies in whatever proposal is or isn't agreed in the next few weeks," he said.

Britain is due to leave the EU at the end of October, but the two sides have not been able to agree to the terms of their divorce. The biggest obstacle remains disagreement over how to keep open the border between Ireland, a member of the EU, and Northern Ireland, part of the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/uk-economy-flirting-with-recession-after-services-shrink-unexpectedly-253502">UK</a>, after Brexit.

The police in Northern Ireland will not staff border security after Brexit, the Police Service of Northern Ireland's chief constable said on Thursday. "We will, of course, police the border as normal.

The police in Northern Ireland will not staff border security after Brexit, the Police Service of Northern Ireland's chief constable said on Thursday. "We will, of course, police the border as normal. But if the underpinning assumption is that you will see armed officers effectively staffing checkpoints in various parts of the border area, no," Simon Byrne said in comments reported by the Irish Times "You're not going to see lines of Land Rovers waving vehicles over with PSNI people checking documents, goods, the back of white vans and so on." The chief constable told a public meeting of the Northern Ireland Policing Board that he will ask the British government for 300 additional officers to bring the force's strength to 7,500, at a cost of 40 million pounds ($49.31 million). The extra officers are in addition to 200 officers who are expected to be in place by March. A further 200 are to be redeployed from other duties to Brexit-related operations. Byrne also told the board members that he was clear with the Northern Ireland Office that it will not be up to the Police Service of Northern Ireland to staff any border security. "We are clearly there to facilitate normality and day-to-day policing, but not to carry out customs checks and the function of other agencies in whatever proposal is or isn't agreed in the next few weeks," he said. Britain is due to leave the EU at the end of October, but the two sides have not been able to agree to the terms of their divorce. The biggest obstacle remains disagreement over how to keep open the border between Ireland, a member of the EU, and Northern Ireland, part of the UK, after Brexit.

Northern Ireland police will not staff border checkpoints: Chief

Boris Johnson said that he won't resign to avoid having to delay Brexit. To know more watch the video

Johnson vows to take Britain out of EU

The British-flagged oil tanker Stena Impero, which had been held off the Iranian port of Bandar Abbas for more than two months, set sail and reached international waters Friday, its Swedish owner said.

"She reached international waters about 15 minutes ago," Erik Hanell, CEO of the company that owns the vessel, Stena Bulk, told AFP at 12 pm (1000 GMT) on Friday, adding that the ship was heading for Dubai.

On Wednesday, an Iranian foreign ministry spokesman, Abbas Mousavi, said the lifting of the seizure was finalized in a procedure coordinated by the foreign ministry, Iran's judiciary and its port and maritime authorities.

After the ship had left Iran and reached international waters on Friday Hanell said it was "obviously a relief" and added that the priority now was the crew.

"When we reach Dubai we will firstly take care of the crew and then try and get the ship in operational order again," he said.

Iran's Revolutionary Guards seized the tanker in the Strait of Hormuz on July 19 after surrounding the vessel with attack boats and rappelling onto its deck.

It was impounded off the port of Bandar Abbas for allegedly failing to respond to distress calls and turning off its transponder after hitting a fishing boat.

Seven of its 23 crew members were released on September 4.

The ship's seizure was widely seen as a tit-for-tat move after authorities in the British overseas territory of Gibraltar detained an Iranian tanker on suspicion it was shipping oil to Syria in breach of EU sanctions.

Tehran repeatedly denied the cases were related but a Gibraltar court last month ordered the Iranian tanker's release despite an 11th-hour US legal bid to keep it in detention.

The British-flagged oil tanker Stena Impero, which had been held off the Iranian port of Bandar Abbas for more than two months, set sail and reached international waters Friday, its Swedish owner said.

The British-flagged oil tanker Stena Impero, which had been held off the Iranian port of Bandar Abbas for more than two months, set sail and reached international waters Friday, its Swedish owner said. "She reached international waters about 15 minutes ago," Erik Hanell, CEO of the company that owns the vessel, Stena Bulk, told AFP at 12 pm (1000 GMT) on Friday, adding that the ship was heading for Dubai. On Wednesday, an Iranian foreign ministry spokesman, Abbas Mousavi, said the lifting of the seizure was finalized in a procedure coordinated by the foreign ministry, Iran's judiciary and its port and maritime authorities. After the ship had left Iran and reached international waters on Friday Hanell said it was "obviously a relief" and added that the priority now was the crew. "When we reach Dubai we will firstly take care of the crew and then try and get the ship in operational order again," he said. Iran's Revolutionary Guards seized the tanker in the Strait of Hormuz on July 19 after surrounding the vessel with attack boats and rappelling onto its deck. It was impounded off the port of Bandar Abbas for allegedly failing to respond to distress calls and turning off its transponder after hitting a fishing boat. Seven of its 23 crew members were released on September 4. The ship's seizure was widely seen as a tit-for-tat move after authorities in the British overseas territory of Gibraltar detained an Iranian tanker on suspicion it was shipping oil to Syria in breach of EU sanctions. Tehran repeatedly denied the cases were related but a Gibraltar court last month ordered the Iranian tanker's release despite an 11th-hour US legal bid to keep it in detention.

Tanker released by Iran reaches international waters: Swedish owner

UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson faced an angry backlash from across the political spectrum on Thursday following a series of angry exchanges in parliament over Brexit.

Tensions boiled over on Wednesday when <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/what-are-they-scared-of-uk-pm-johnson-challenges-opposition-to-call-confidence-vote-252076">Johnson </a>went on the offensive after MPs returned to work following a Supreme Court ruling calling parliament suspension unlawful.

He refused to apologize and repeatedly slammed parliament for passing a "surrender act" requiring him to seek a <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/boris-johnson-flies-back-to-face-uk-parliament-as-brexit-chaos-deepens-251977">Brexit </a>delay past the October 31 deadline if he fails to reach an exit agreement with the EU.

Britain has been bitterly divided over the issue ever since the 2016 EU referendum campaign and the government has delayed Brexit twice because parliament has failed to approve its draft deal with EU leaders.

Watch Video:&nbsp;UK PM Boris Johnson braces for Brexit battle

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The real uproar on Wednesday came when Johnson said the best way to honour Jo Cox an anti-Brexit Labour MP who was fatally shot and stabbed by a Nazi sympathizer during the referendum campaign would be "to get Brexit done".

"Feel a bit sick at Jo's name being used this way," her husband Brendan tweeted.

"The best way to honour Jo is for all of us (no matter our views) to stand up for what we believe in &nbsp;but never to demonize the other side."

Opposition Labour Party leader Jeremy Corbyn accused Johnson of using language that was "indistinguishable from (that of) the far-right".

'Toxic' atmosphere

Even some members of Johnson's Conservatives appeared taken aback.

"At a time of strong feelings, we all need to remind ourselves of the effect of everything we say on those watching," Culture and Media Minister Nicky Morgan said.

And Jacob Rees-Mogg a strong Brexit and Johnson supporter who represents the government in parliament noted that everyone "had a responsibility to be mild in our language".

Parliamentary speaker John Bercow said the atmosphere in parliament was "toxic" and announced a special debate later on Thursday on the language used by MPs.

"Treat each other as opponents, not as enemies," Bercow said.

Security has been stepped up around a number of MPs who reported receiving death threats over their Brexit positions online.

Johnson was due to meet Thursday with his party's policymakers as he plots strategy over the crisis with just a month to go before Britain is due to leave the EU.

He was expected to try to pass a motion allowing parliament to be suspended for three days next week during the Conservatives' annual conference.

The House of Commons traditionally does not sit on party conference days.

But the opposition argues that the rules should be changed this time around to let MPs handle Brexit, which could mean the party conference has to be cancelled or shortened.

Johnson has said he is aiming to reach a deal with Brussels ahead of October 31 but is ready to take Britain out of the EU without a deal if necessary.

He has called for an election to resolve the current impasse with MPs, who have rejected the current version of the deal struck by his predecessor Theresa May last year.

The opposition warns a no-deal Brexit would be highly disruptive for Britain's economy and has said Johnson should first delay Brexit before an election is held.

The EU says it has not received any comprehensive proposals from Britain for a new deal.

The EU's chief Brexit negotiator Michel Barnier told reporters: "We are still ready to work on any legal and operational proposal with the UK".

"We are still waiting," he said.

UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson faced an angry backlash from across the political spectrum on Thursday following a series of angry exchanges in parliament over Brexit.

UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson faced an angry backlash from across the political spectrum on Thursday following a series of angry exchanges in parliament over Brexit. Tensions boiled over on Wednesday when Johnson went on the offensive after MPs returned to work following a Supreme Court ruling calling parliament suspension unlawful. He refused to apologize and repeatedly slammed parliament for passing a "surrender act" requiring him to seek a Brexit delay past the October 31 deadline if he fails to reach an exit agreement with the EU. Britain has been bitterly divided over the issue ever since the 2016 EU referendum campaign and the government has delayed Brexit twice because parliament has failed to approve its draft deal with EU leaders. Watch Video: UK PM Boris Johnson braces for Brexit battle × The real uproar on Wednesday came when Johnson said the best way to honour Jo Cox an anti-Brexit Labour MP who was fatally shot and stabbed by a Nazi sympathizer during the referendum campaign would be "to get Brexit done". "Feel a bit sick at Jo's name being used this way," her husband Brendan tweeted. "The best way to honour Jo is for all of us (no matter our views) to stand up for what we believe in but never to demonize the other side." Opposition Labour Party leader Jeremy Corbyn accused Johnson of using language that was "indistinguishable from (that of) the far-right". 'Toxic' atmosphere Even some members of Johnson's Conservatives appeared taken aback. "At a time of strong feelings, we all need to remind ourselves of the effect of everything we say on those watching," Culture and Media Minister Nicky Morgan said. And Jacob Rees-Mogg a strong Brexit and Johnson supporter who represents the government in parliament noted that everyone "had a responsibility to be mild in our language". Parliamentary speaker John Bercow said the atmosphere in parliament was "toxic" and announced a special debate later on Thursday on the language used by MPs. "Treat each other as opponents, not as enemies," Bercow said. Security has been stepped up around a number of MPs who reported receiving death threats over their Brexit positions online. Johnson was due to meet Thursday with his party's policymakers as he plots strategy over the crisis with just a month to go before Britain is due to leave the EU. He was expected to try to pass a motion allowing parliament to be suspended for three days next week during the Conservatives' annual conference. The House of Commons traditionally does not sit on party conference days. But the opposition argues that the rules should be changed this time around to let MPs handle Brexit, which could mean the party conference has to be cancelled or shortened. Johnson has said he is aiming to reach a deal with Brussels ahead of October 31 but is ready to take Britain out of the EU without a deal if necessary. He has called for an election to resolve the current impasse with MPs, who have rejected the current version of the deal struck by his predecessor Theresa May last year. The opposition warns a no-deal Brexit would be highly disruptive for Britain's economy and has said Johnson should first delay Brexit before an election is held. The EU says it has not received any comprehensive proposals from Britain for a new deal. The EU's chief Brexit negotiator Michel Barnier told reporters: "We are still ready to work on any legal and operational proposal with the UK". "We are still waiting," he said.

Outrage at UK PM Boris Johnson's rhetoric in Brexit impasse

British Prime Minister Boris Johnson returned home from a foreign trip on Wednesday still intent on delivering <a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions/brexit-row-boris-johnson-defeated-by-uk-supreme-court-but-he-could-still-emerge-as-a-winner-251957">Brexit </a>on October 31 but facing demands from opponents for his resignation after a humiliating Supreme Court ruling that he had unlawfully suspended parliament.

With no end in sight to the three-year crisis over Britain's departure from the European Union, Johnson says the country will leave with or without an exit agreement. Most lawmakers are determined to block a no-deal scenario.

Parliament will sit again on Wednesday but it is unclear exactly what will emerge next from the Brexit deadlock.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/britains-johnson-urges-rouhani-to-release-imprisoned-dual-nationals-251900">Johnson </a>has rejected calls from opponents to resign but opposition Labour Party leader Jeremy Corbyn said on Wednesday now was not the time for parliament to try and bring him down.

"Quite simply our first priority is to prevent a no-deal exit from the EU on the 31st of October," Corbyn said in an interview on BBC Radio 4.

The House of Commons, where Johnson has no majority, will reconvene on Wednesday after the Supreme Court ruling on Tuesday that his decision to suspend it for five weeks was unlawful and therefore null and void.

Before the suspension, parliament had passed a law requiring Johnson to ask the EU to push back the deadline if no exit deal was agreed by October 19. Corbyn said he and other opposition legislators would focus on ensuring that Johnson abided by that law.

Asked by reporters in New York on Tuesday how he planned to overcome that legal obstacle, Johnson simply ignored the question and insisted Brexit would take place on October&nbsp;31 come what may.

Johnson has repeatedly said his preferred Brexit outcome would be to agree on an exit deal with the EU's 27 other members before the deadline and that he was hopeful he would achieve that.

However, EU negotiators say he has made no new proposals capable of breaking the deadlock over the issue of how to manage the border between Ireland, an EU member, and Northern Ireland, which is part of the United Kingdom, after Brexit.

'Stain on his Character'

Reactions to the Supreme Court's blistering ruling showed that divisions were deeper than ever.

"This ruling leaves a stain on his character and competence," the Financial Times newspaper said in its editorial. "Faced with such a damning judgment, any premier with a shred of respect for British democracy and the responsibilities of his office would resign."

At the other end of the spectrum, the Brexit-supporting Sun newspaper denounced the Supreme Court ruling as a "perilous coup by political judges".

"Boris, victim of yesterday's staggering legal coup, has to respect this court and its supposed impartiality. But in one unprecedented act of constitutional vandalism, 11 judges became an unelected political entity, granting themselves immense power to overrule our government and queen," it said in its leader column.

The Sun was echoing Jacob Rees-Mogg, the leader of the House of Commons and one of the most ardent advocates of Brexit, who was reported by British newspapers to have described the ruling as a "constitutional coup" during a conference call with Johnson and other cabinet members on Tuesday.

Johnson himself was combative after the ruling, saying in New York that he strongly disagreed with it and complaining that that too many people were trying to thwart Brexit against the will of the people.

But one of his own former cabinet members, Amber Rudd, said it would be irresponsible for the government to cast the ruling as an anti-Brexit move when Johnson's defence all along was that his decision to suspend parliament in the first place had nothing to do with Brexit.

Former minister Dominic Grieve, an anti-Johnson rebel within the ruling Conservative Party, accused the prime minister of behaving "like a bull in a china shop" and taking a sledgehammer to the constitution on a daily basis.

"Boris Johnson has decided to be a populist politician. That's a very dangerous thing to do, because stirring up people against parliament is not going to solve the country's problems. It will create more anger, more tension," he told Sky News.

Opposition leader Corbyn said in the BBC interview that once a no-deal Brexit had been averted, it would be appropriate to move a motion of no confidence to force the government to resign and then have a general election.

British Prime Minister Boris Johnson returned home from a foreign trip on Wednesday still intent on delivering Brexit on October 31 but facing demands from opponents for his resignation after a humiliating Supreme Court ruling that he had unlawfully suspended parliament.

British Prime Minister Boris Johnson returned home from a foreign trip on Wednesday still intent on delivering Brexit on October 31 but facing demands from opponents for his resignation after a humiliating Supreme Court ruling that he had unlawfully suspended parliament. With no end in sight to the three-year crisis over Britain's departure from the European Union, Johnson says the country will leave with or without an exit agreement. Most lawmakers are determined to block a no-deal scenario. Parliament will sit again on Wednesday but it is unclear exactly what will emerge next from the Brexit deadlock. Johnson has rejected calls from opponents to resign but opposition Labour Party leader Jeremy Corbyn said on Wednesday now was not the time for parliament to try and bring him down. "Quite simply our first priority is to prevent a no-deal exit from the EU on the 31st of October," Corbyn said in an interview on BBC Radio 4. The House of Commons, where Johnson has no majority, will reconvene on Wednesday after the Supreme Court ruling on Tuesday that his decision to suspend it for five weeks was unlawful and therefore null and void. Before the suspension, parliament had passed a law requiring Johnson to ask the EU to push back the deadline if no exit deal was agreed by October 19. Corbyn said he and other opposition legislators would focus on ensuring that Johnson abided by that law. Asked by reporters in New York on Tuesday how he planned to overcome that legal obstacle, Johnson simply ignored the question and insisted Brexit would take place on October 31 come what may. Johnson has repeatedly said his preferred Brexit outcome would be to agree on an exit deal with the EU's 27 other members before the deadline and that he was hopeful he would achieve that. However, EU negotiators say he has made no new proposals capable of breaking the deadlock over the issue of how to manage the border between Ireland, an EU member, and Northern Ireland, which is part of the United Kingdom, after Brexit. 'Stain on his Character' Reactions to the Supreme Court's blistering ruling showed that divisions were deeper than ever. "This ruling leaves a stain on his character and competence," the Financial Times newspaper said in its editorial. "Faced with such a damning judgment, any premier with a shred of respect for British democracy and the responsibilities of his office would resign." At the other end of the spectrum, the Brexit-supporting Sun newspaper denounced the Supreme Court ruling as a "perilous coup by political judges". "Boris, victim of yesterday's staggering legal coup, has to respect this court and its supposed impartiality. But in one unprecedented act of constitutional vandalism, 11 judges became an unelected political entity, granting themselves immense power to overrule our government and queen," it said in its leader column. The Sun was echoing Jacob Rees-Mogg, the leader of the House of Commons and one of the most ardent advocates of Brexit, who was reported by British newspapers to have described the ruling as a "constitutional coup" during a conference call with Johnson and other cabinet members on Tuesday. Johnson himself was combative after the ruling, saying in New York that he strongly disagreed with it and complaining that that too many people were trying to thwart Brexit against the will of the people. But one of his own former cabinet members, Amber Rudd, said it would be irresponsible for the government to cast the ruling as an anti-Brexit move when Johnson's defence all along was that his decision to suspend parliament in the first place had nothing to do with Brexit. Former minister Dominic Grieve, an anti-Johnson rebel within the ruling Conservative Party, accused the prime minister of behaving "like a bull in a china shop" and taking a sledgehammer to the constitution on a daily basis. "Boris Johnson has decided to be a populist politician. That's a very dangerous thing to do, because stirring up people against parliament is not going to solve the country's problems. It will create more anger, more tension," he told Sky News. Opposition leader Corbyn said in the BBC interview that once a no-deal Brexit had been averted, it would be appropriate to move a motion of no confidence to force the government to resign and then have a general election.

Boris Johnson flies back to face UK parliament as Brexit chaos deepens

By Matthew Flinders

It’s fairly clear that the tectonic plates of the British constitution are shifting. After a grating and grinding battle between the legislature and the constitution, the main friction point moved to the judicial sphere.

And the UK Supreme Court has ruled that the process by which prime minister prorogued parliament for five weeks in the run-up the October 31 date when Brexit is now due was not lawful. What happens now in terms of process is unclear but what appears to have been almost completely overlooked in the generally turgid and jargon-rich commentaries that have surrounded the case is that the result is unlikely to matter.

In fact, despite losing this specific trial of strength, Johnson may still come out the winner.

The goal of the teams taking on the government in court was to stop executive overreach. They argued that the government had devised a lengthy prorogation to limit the time available for parliament to hold the government to account over Brexit ahead of the October 31 deadline. The government insisted that the break was needed to organise a new parliamentary session. The courts have decided this was not the case.

But judicial bravery in highly contested constitutional waters may have the unintended consequence of delivering a major “Boris boost” in terms of public support. Whether through serendipity or strategy (probably the former) the prime minister has created a win-win situation that nobody seems to have noticed.

The Supreme Court upheld campaigner Gina Miller’s appeal and overturned a ruling by the English High Court that suspending parliament was “not a matter” for the judiciary.

In so doing, the court is, in effect, siding with the highest court in Scotland, which ruled earlier this month that the prorogation of parliament was unlawful as “it had the purpose of stymieing parliament”.

This decision is certain to spark the political equivalent of a volcanic eruption with claims and counter-claims of judicial activism and political incompetence. Academics will undoubtedly scuttle off to the library in an attempt to somehow reconcile the Supreme Court’s decision with legal scholar JAG Griffith’s classic account of “the political constitution” in the United Kingdom (Modern Law Review, 1979 and still well worth reading).

In reality, such matters are relatively simple. The court’s decision is constitutionally legitimate on the basis that it was upholding the basic tenet of parliamentary sovereignty. Far from undermining the political constitution, the Supreme Court would from this position be protecting it, while retaining a politically subservient position.

But what no one seems to have considered is that Johnson is an explicitly populist politician. He will live to whiff-whaff another day. His whole approach to gaining the keys to No.10 has revolved around constantly responding to – and to some extent amplifying – the populist signal, not least over Brexit. In this context, a Supreme Court defeat risks simply playing into Johnson’s gameplan. It will not stop Brexit. But for Johnson and, especially for his shady apparatchiks, it will be yet another example of “them” (that is, the elite, the experts, the untouchables that wield power without responsibility) against “us” (the Great British public).

The rules of political engagement have already been altered almost beyond recognition, and Johnson’s entire brand is based on being an unconventional politician.

The great risk of the Supreme Court ruling is that it will add fuel to a populist fire that is already raging about the need for a strong leader. Indeed, one of the few similarities between all the different manifestations of populism that have emerged around the world over the past decade is the existence of a charismatic and strong leader who can mobilise the masses and manipulate how dominant issues are framed. In the UK it is Johnson who seems to be staking the greatest claim to this role – and his popularity amongst Conservative Party members provides a powerful platform.

Britain’s threadbare constitutional framework makes it particularly vulnerable to the wrath of a strong leader. Where other countries have adopted a codified constitution, clear rules of engagement and an explicit role for the courts in curbing executive power, the British constitution operates through what the eminent constitutional historian Peter Hennessy has called “the good chaps theory of government”, which presumes that all politicians will exercise a high degree of self-restraint, respecting the unwritten rules of the constitution.

What’s worrying is that the words “Boris Johnson” and “self-restraint” have rarely – if ever – been used in the same sentence. He is not a man to play by the rules and the power of populism appears far too tempting. This is reflected in his refusal to rule out simply suspending parliament again. This tendency to pander to populism is exactly why a judicial loss risks boosting rather than wounding the prime minister.

(Matthew Flinders is Founding Director of the Sir Bernard Crick Centre for the Public Understanding of Politics, University of Sheffield)

(This article was originally published on The Conversation. Read the<a href="https://theconversation.com/brexit-boris-johnson-defeated-by-uk-supreme-court-but-he-could-still-emerge-as-a-winner-123819"> original article</a>)

(Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL) &nbsp; 
&nbsp; 
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By Matthew Flinders It’s fairly clear that the tectonic plates of the British constitution are shifting. After a grating and grinding battle between the legislature and the constitution, the main friction point moved to the judicial sphere.

By Matthew Flinders It’s fairly clear that the tectonic plates of the British constitution are shifting. After a grating and grinding battle between the legislature and the constitution, the main friction point moved to the judicial sphere. And the UK Supreme Court has ruled that the process by which prime minister prorogued parliament for five weeks in the run-up the October 31 date when Brexit is now due was not lawful. What happens now in terms of process is unclear but what appears to have been almost completely overlooked in the generally turgid and jargon-rich commentaries that have surrounded the case is that the result is unlikely to matter. In fact, despite losing this specific trial of strength, Johnson may still come out the winner. The goal of the teams taking on the government in court was to stop executive overreach. They argued that the government had devised a lengthy prorogation to limit the time available for parliament to hold the government to account over Brexit ahead of the October 31 deadline. The government insisted that the break was needed to organise a new parliamentary session. The courts have decided this was not the case. But judicial bravery in highly contested constitutional waters may have the unintended consequence of delivering a major “Boris boost” in terms of public support. Whether through serendipity or strategy (probably the former) the prime minister has created a win-win situation that nobody seems to have noticed. The Supreme Court upheld campaigner Gina Miller’s appeal and overturned a ruling by the English High Court that suspending parliament was “not a matter” for the judiciary. In so doing, the court is, in effect, siding with the highest court in Scotland, which ruled earlier this month that the prorogation of parliament was unlawful as “it had the purpose of stymieing parliament”. This decision is certain to spark the political equivalent of a volcanic eruption with claims and counter-claims of judicial activism and political incompetence. Academics will undoubtedly scuttle off to the library in an attempt to somehow reconcile the Supreme Court’s decision with legal scholar JAG Griffith’s classic account of “the political constitution” in the United Kingdom (Modern Law Review, 1979 and still well worth reading). In reality, such matters are relatively simple. The court’s decision is constitutionally legitimate on the basis that it was upholding the basic tenet of parliamentary sovereignty. Far from undermining the political constitution, the Supreme Court would from this position be protecting it, while retaining a politically subservient position. But what no one seems to have considered is that Johnson is an explicitly populist politician. He will live to whiff-whaff another day. His whole approach to gaining the keys to No.10 has revolved around constantly responding to – and to some extent amplifying – the populist signal, not least over Brexit. In this context, a Supreme Court defeat risks simply playing into Johnson’s gameplan. It will not stop Brexit. But for Johnson and, especially for his shady apparatchiks, it will be yet another example of “them” (that is, the elite, the experts, the untouchables that wield power without responsibility) against “us” (the Great British public). The rules of political engagement have already been altered almost beyond recognition, and Johnson’s entire brand is based on being an unconventional politician. The great risk of the Supreme Court ruling is that it will add fuel to a populist fire that is already raging about the need for a strong leader. Indeed, one of the few similarities between all the different manifestations of populism that have emerged around the world over the past decade is the existence of a charismatic and strong leader who can mobilise the masses and manipulate how dominant issues are framed. In the UK it is Johnson who seems to be staking the greatest claim to this role – and his popularity amongst Conservative Party members provides a powerful platform. Britain’s threadbare constitutional framework makes it particularly vulnerable to the wrath of a strong leader. Where other countries have adopted a codified constitution, clear rules of engagement and an explicit role for the courts in curbing executive power, the British constitution operates through what the eminent constitutional historian Peter Hennessy has called “the good chaps theory of government”, which presumes that all politicians will exercise a high degree of self-restraint, respecting the unwritten rules of the constitution. What’s worrying is that the words “Boris Johnson” and “self-restraint” have rarely – if ever – been used in the same sentence. He is not a man to play by the rules and the power of populism appears far too tempting. This is reflected in his refusal to rule out simply suspending parliament again. This tendency to pander to populism is exactly why a judicial loss risks boosting rather than wounding the prime minister. (Matthew Flinders is Founding Director of the Sir Bernard Crick Centre for the Public Understanding of Politics, University of Sheffield) (This article was originally published on The Conversation. Read the original article) (Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)

Brexit row: Boris Johnson defeated by UK Supreme Court – but he could still emerge as a winner

The United Kingdom <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uk-supreme-court-ruling-could-throw-boris-johnsons-brexit-plan-into-more-disarray-251621">Supreme Court</a> ruled on Tuesday (September 24) that Prime Minister Boris Johnson's decision to shut down parliament in the run-up to Brexit was unlawful, a decision that thrusts Britain's exit from the European Union into deeper turmoil.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/boris-johnson-says-uk-will-invest-125-billion-to-save-endangered-species-251653">Johnson </a>told to reporters in New York where he is attending the United Nations General Assembly that he would "respect the judicial process" but that the UK would still leave the EU on October 31.

Britain's lower house of parliament, the House of Commons, is set to sit on Wednesday (September 25) after the Supreme Court ruled Johnson's suspension of parliament was unlawful, Commons Speaker John Bercow said.

The United Kingdom Supreme Court ruled on Tuesday (September 24) that Prime Minister Boris Johnson's decision to shut down parliament in the run-up to Brexit was unlawful, a decision that thrusts Britain's exit from the European Union into deeper turmoil.

The United Kingdom Supreme Court ruled on Tuesday (September 24) that Prime Minister Boris Johnson's decision to shut down parliament in the run-up to Brexit was unlawful, a decision that thrusts Britain's exit from the European Union into deeper turmoil. Johnson told to reporters in New York where he is attending the United Nations General Assembly that he would "respect the judicial process" but that the UK would still leave the EU on October 31. Britain's lower house of parliament, the House of Commons, is set to sit on Wednesday (September 25) after the Supreme Court ruled Johnson's suspension of parliament was unlawful, Commons Speaker John Bercow said.

UK PM says will respect Supreme Court verdict, still leaving EU on October 31

British Prime Minister Boris Johnson reiterated a call for "flexibility" from the EU in Brexit talks during a meeting with Council President Donald Tusk in New York Monday that failed to yield a breakthrough.

Johnson and Tusk met on the sidelines of the UN General Assembly as Britain races towards its October 31 departure without an exit agreement and the prospect of economic disruption.

The British prime minister underlined to Tusk that his preference is for an exit agreement, a Downing Street spokesperson said, adding that the pair discussed finding an alternative to the so-called "Irish backstop."

They also discussed three papers recently submitted by London with ideas on replacing the backstop provisions in the Brexit deal struck last year but rejected by British lawmakers.

"The Prime Minister emphasized that in order to secure a deal we will now need to see movement and flexibility from the EU," said the spokesman.

"The leaders agreed to keep in touch over the coming weeks," they added.

Tusk tweeted that there had been, "No breakthrough. No breakdown," adding that there was "no time to lose."

The meeting came as the EU's chief Brexit negotiator, Michel Barnier, said Monday that London's current position did not offer any "basis to find an agreement" on leaving the bloc.

He said it was "difficult to see how we can arrive at a legally operative solution which fulfils all the objectives of the backstop."

The "backstop" is intended to guarantee that there is no hard border between EU member Ireland and the UK's province of Northern Ireland and to protect the EU's single market.

The British government has admitted leaving without an exit agreement could cause food shortages and spark civil unrest.

Johnson also held a 30-minute meeting with Prime Minister Charles Michel of Belgium, in which Brexit was discussed, the spokesperson for the British prime minister said.

British Prime Minister Boris Johnson reiterated a call for "flexibility" from the EU in Brexit talks during a meeting with Council President Donald Tusk in New York Monday that failed to yield a breakthrough.

British Prime Minister Boris Johnson reiterated a call for "flexibility" from the EU in Brexit talks during a meeting with Council President Donald Tusk in New York Monday that failed to yield a breakthrough. Johnson and Tusk met on the sidelines of the UN General Assembly as Britain races towards its October 31 departure without an exit agreement and the prospect of economic disruption. The British prime minister underlined to Tusk that his preference is for an exit agreement, a Downing Street spokesperson said, adding that the pair discussed finding an alternative to the so-called "Irish backstop." They also discussed three papers recently submitted by London with ideas on replacing the backstop provisions in the Brexit deal struck last year but rejected by British lawmakers. "The Prime Minister emphasized that in order to secure a deal we will now need to see movement and flexibility from the EU," said the spokesman. "The leaders agreed to keep in touch over the coming weeks," they added. Tusk tweeted that there had been, "No breakthrough. No breakdown," adding that there was "no time to lose." The meeting came as the EU's chief Brexit negotiator, Michel Barnier, said Monday that London's current position did not offer any "basis to find an agreement" on leaving the bloc. He said it was "difficult to see how we can arrive at a legally operative solution which fulfils all the objectives of the backstop." The "backstop" is intended to guarantee that there is no hard border between EU member Ireland and the UK's province of Northern Ireland and to protect the EU's single market. The British government has admitted leaving without an exit agreement could cause food shortages and spark civil unrest. Johnson also held a 30-minute meeting with Prime Minister Charles Michel of Belgium, in which Brexit was discussed, the spokesperson for the British prime minister said.

No breakthrough as EU's Donald Tusk, Britain's Boris Johnson meet in New York

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