Moscow has plegded retaliation against&nbsp;European Union sanctions over the case of Kremlin critic Alexei Navalny, Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov said on Wednesday.

Earlier, European Union foreign ministers backed a Franco-German plan on Monday to impose sanctions on Russians suspected of poisoning Navalny with a nerve agent.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/european-union-agrees-in-principle-to-sanction-russia-over-navalny-poisoning-334758">European Union agrees in principle to sanction Russia over Navalny poisoning</a>

Ambassadors from the 27 EU countries approved sanctions after France and Germany proposed measures last week, saying Russia was responsible for the poisoning.

In line with usual EU practice, those targeted by the sanctions, travel bans and asset freezes, will not be named until the measures take legal effect on Thursday, but they are likely to be Russian officials.

Paris and Berlin said last week they wanted to target individuals "based on their official function" and an entity "involved in the Novichok programme".

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="http://13.235.153.162/world/targeted-sanctions-unavoidable-germany-warns-russia-over-navalny-poisoning-333220" hreflang="en">'Targeted sanctions unavoidable': Germany warns Russia over Navalny poisoning</a>

European&nbsp;powers have repeatedly asked Moscow to investigate the poisoning, which took place on Russian soil, but in a joint statement last week the French and German foreign ministers said the Kremlin had come up with "no credible explanation".

The move to punish Russia came after the UN's chemical weapons watchdog OPCW confirmed Germany, France and Sweden's finding that Navalny was poisoned by a nerve agent of the Soviet-developed Novichok group.

A poison from the same group was used to attack former Russian spy Sergei Skripal and his daughter in England in 2018 -- an incident that prompted the EU to sanction four members of the Kremlin's military intelligence.

The latest measures were signed off politically by EU foreign ministers on Monday, a move hailed by Germany's Heiko Maas.

"I believe it is of paramount importance in the light of such a serious crime -- a violation of international law and the chemical weapons convention -- that the&nbsp;European&nbsp;Union&nbsp;shows unity, and it has done so today," he said.

EU diplomatic chief Josep Borrell pressed Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov on the Navalny case during phone talks on Tuesday.

Borrell's office said he called for Moscow to "do its utmost to investigate this crime thoroughly in full transparency" and cooperate with the OPCW.

Moscow has plegded retaliation against European Union sanctions over the case of Kremlin critic Alexei Navalny, Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov said on Wednesday.

Moscow has plegded retaliation against European Union sanctions over the case of Kremlin critic Alexei Navalny, Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov said on Wednesday. Earlier, European Union foreign ministers backed a Franco-German plan on Monday to impose sanctions on Russians suspected of poisoning Navalny with a nerve agent. Also read: European Union agrees in principle to sanction Russia over Navalny poisoning Ambassadors from the 27 EU countries approved sanctions after France and Germany proposed measures last week, saying Russia was responsible for the poisoning. In line with usual EU practice, those targeted by the sanctions, travel bans and asset freezes, will not be named until the measures take legal effect on Thursday, but they are likely to be Russian officials. Paris and Berlin said last week they wanted to target individuals "based on their official function" and an entity "involved in the Novichok programme". Also read: 'Targeted sanctions unavoidable': Germany warns Russia over Navalny poisoning European powers have repeatedly asked Moscow to investigate the poisoning, which took place on Russian soil, but in a joint statement last week the French and German foreign ministers said the Kremlin had come up with "no credible explanation". The move to punish Russia came after the UN's chemical weapons watchdog OPCW confirmed Germany, France and Sweden's finding that Navalny was poisoned by a nerve agent of the Soviet-developed Novichok group. A poison from the same group was used to attack former Russian spy Sergei Skripal and his daughter in England in 2018 -- an incident that prompted the EU to sanction four members of the Kremlin's military intelligence. The latest measures were signed off politically by EU foreign ministers on Monday, a move hailed by Germany's Heiko Maas. "I believe it is of paramount importance in the light of such a serious crime -- a violation of international law and the chemical weapons convention -- that the European Union shows unity, and it has done so today," he said. EU diplomatic chief Josep Borrell pressed Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov on the Navalny case during phone talks on Tuesday. Borrell's office said he called for Moscow to "do its utmost to investigate this crime thoroughly in full transparency" and cooperate with the OPCW.

Russia pledges retaliation against EU sanctions over Navalny poisoning

The European Union on Tuesday won the right to impose tariffs on $4 billion of U.S. goods in retaliation against subsidies for planemaker Boeing - deepening a record trade spat that has already prompted Washington to slap duties on EU imports.

EU wins tariff clearance on $4 billion of US imports in Boeing case

The World Trade Organization on Tuesday gave the European Union permission to impose tariffs on $4 billion worth of American products annually in retaliation for illegal subsidies given to American plane-maker Boeing, a move that could result in levies on American airplanes, agricultural products and other goods.

The decision, which stems from a 16-year fight before the global trade body, follows a parallel case that the United States brought against Europe over subsidies to its largest plane-maker, Airbus. Last year, the Trump administration imposed tariffs on European planes, wine, cheese and other products after the WTO gave the United States permission to retaliate on up to $7.5 billion of European exports annually.

It remains to be seen whether the new tariffs will ultimately persuade the United States and Europe to come to a negotiated settlement that would lift the levies, or merely inflame relations and result in higher costs on businesses and consumers on both sides of the Atlantic. The European Union has repeatedly appealed to the United States to remove its tariffs, but U.S. officials say Europe has not taken the necessary actions to stop its Airbus subsidies.

The tariffs will not go into effect immediately. The European Union needs to request authorization from the WTO to impose the levies, which it can do at an Oct. 26 meeting at the earliest. The European Commission last year issued a preliminary list of American products that it could choose to tax, including aircraft, chemicals, citrus fruit, frozen fish and ketchup.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/eu-set-to-get-wto-green-light-for-us-tariffs-334887">Also read:&nbsp;EU set to get WTO green light for US tariffs</a>

The tariffs, when American companies are reeling from the coronavirus pandemic, would be especially painful for Boeing, which is already struggling from a pair of devastating crises. Boeing, like Airbus, announced plans this summer to cut more than 10% of its global workforce amid a steep decline in travel, which has forced airlines to delay and scale back plans to buy planes. Both Boeing and Airbus plan to cut more than 30,000 jobs in all.

Delta Air Lines, whose fleet includes hundreds of planes from both manufacturers, said Tuesday that it had scaled back plans to buy $5 billion worth of aircraft through 2022. Just under a million people were screened at federal airport checkpoints Monday, a decline of more than 60% from the same day last year.

Boeing is also still struggling with fallout from the 737 Max, a star of the company’s fleet of planes, which has been grounded worldwide since March 2019 after two crashes killed 346 people. In January, the company estimated that the grounding, which could be lifted in the coming months, would cost it more than $18 billion. The company is also contending with quality concerns related to another plane, the 787 Dreamliner, a wide-body jet designed for long-distance flights.

So far this year, Boeing customers have canceled 438 orders for the Max, with hundreds more orders removed from its books because of the low likelihood that they will be fulfilled, the company said Tuesday. After accounting for new sales and cancellations, Boeing has lost a net 381 orders for the year.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/eu-wins-tariff-clearance-on-4-billion-of-us-imports-in-boeing-case-335072/amp">Also read:&nbsp;EU wins tariff clearance on $4 billion of US imports in Boeing case</a>

The WTO’s decision Tuesday rested on a Washington state tax break provided to Boeing and worth about $100 million a year. Lawmakers there repealed the tax break this year with Boeing’s support, but the WTO said the subsidy had nevertheless harmed Airbus from 2012 to 2015. Airbus contends that Boeing continues to receive other preferential tax treatment from the state.

“Airbus did not start this WTO dispute, and we do not wish to continue the harm to the customers and suppliers of the aviation industry and to all other sectors impacted,” Guillaume Faury, the company’s chief executive, said in a statement. “It is time to find a solution now so that tariffs can be removed on both sides of the Atlantic.”

Boeing said it was “disappointed” that Airbus and the EU had pursued the tariffs even after the tax break’s repeal, but said the company hoped that both would focus “on good-faith efforts to resolve this long-running dispute.” The EU had asked the WTO to authorize more than $8.5 billion in annual tariffs, while the U.S. said they should not exceed $412 million.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/eu-pushes-uk-to-budge-at-critical-stage-in-brexit-talks-335076">Also read:&nbsp;EU pushes UK to budge at 'critical stage' in Brexit talks</a>

In a statement, Robert Lighthizer, the U.S. trade representative, said the European Union had no valid basis to impose tariffs since Washington had already repealed its tax break, and that the United States would seek more negotiations with Europe.

“Any imposition of tariffs based on a measure that has been eliminated is plainly contrary to WTO principles and will force a U.S. response,” he said. “The United States is determined to find a resolution to this dispute that addresses the massive subsidies European governments have provided to Airbus and the harm to U.S. aerospace workers and businesses.”

Valdis Dombrovskis, the European commissioner for trade, said in a statement that while the decision allowed the European Union to impose tariffs on American products, it would do so “reluctantly.”

“I have been engaging with my American counterpart, Ambassador Lighthizer, and it is my hope that the U.S. will now drop the tariffs imposed on EU exports last year,” he said. “If it does not happen, we will be forced to exercise our rights and impose similar tariffs.”

Ole Moehr, an associate director at the Atlantic Council’s GeoEconomics Center, said that, in the short run, there were likely to be more barriers to trade than before, but that the ruling might ultimately “open the door for a trans-Atlantic trade détente.”

“Both sides are waiting until the election is settled to reengage and depending on the outcome we could see a ratcheting up of tensions before any potential deepening of trade ties,” Moehr said. “The Airbus-Boeing dispute is one of the keys to the entire trade relationship and today’s decision, combined with the recession triggered by the pandemic, may change the calculus over the long term.”

The ruling brings to a close a dispute that formally began in 2004. At the time, the United States and Boeing accused several European nations of violating trade agreements by providing Airbus with below-market loans. That “launch aid” helped Airbus to develop and produce several types of aircraft, allowing it to gain equal footing with Boeing in the global airplane market, despite having less than 25% of the market in 1990, they argued.

Last year, the WTO sided with the United States, allowing up to $7.5 billion in annual tariffs on European imports. Europe countered with a formal complaint of its own in 2005, arguing that the United States had similarly provided illegal subsidies to Boeing.

The World Trade Organization on Tuesday gave the European Union permission to impose tariffs on $4 billion worth of American products annually in retaliation for illegal subsidies given to American plane-maker Boeing, a move that could result in levies on American airplanes, agricultural products and other goods.

The World Trade Organization on Tuesday gave the European Union permission to impose tariffs on $4 billion worth of American products annually in retaliation for illegal subsidies given to American plane-maker Boeing, a move that could result in levies on American airplanes, agricultural products and other goods. The decision, which stems from a 16-year fight before the global trade body, follows a parallel case that the United States brought against Europe over subsidies to its largest plane-maker, Airbus. Last year, the Trump administration imposed tariffs on European planes, wine, cheese and other products after the WTO gave the United States permission to retaliate on up to $7.5 billion of European exports annually. It remains to be seen whether the new tariffs will ultimately persuade the United States and Europe to come to a negotiated settlement that would lift the levies, or merely inflame relations and result in higher costs on businesses and consumers on both sides of the Atlantic. The European Union has repeatedly appealed to the United States to remove its tariffs, but U.S. officials say Europe has not taken the necessary actions to stop its Airbus subsidies. The tariffs will not go into effect immediately. The European Union needs to request authorization from the WTO to impose the levies, which it can do at an Oct. 26 meeting at the earliest. The European Commission last year issued a preliminary list of American products that it could choose to tax, including aircraft, chemicals, citrus fruit, frozen fish and ketchup. Also read: EU set to get WTO green light for US tariffs The tariffs, when American companies are reeling from the coronavirus pandemic, would be especially painful for Boeing, which is already struggling from a pair of devastating crises. Boeing, like Airbus, announced plans this summer to cut more than 10% of its global workforce amid a steep decline in travel, which has forced airlines to delay and scale back plans to buy planes. Both Boeing and Airbus plan to cut more than 30,000 jobs in all. Delta Air Lines, whose fleet includes hundreds of planes from both manufacturers, said Tuesday that it had scaled back plans to buy $5 billion worth of aircraft through 2022. Just under a million people were screened at federal airport checkpoints Monday, a decline of more than 60% from the same day last year. Boeing is also still struggling with fallout from the 737 Max, a star of the company’s fleet of planes, which has been grounded worldwide since March 2019 after two crashes killed 346 people. In January, the company estimated that the grounding, which could be lifted in the coming months, would cost it more than $18 billion. The company is also contending with quality concerns related to another plane, the 787 Dreamliner, a wide-body jet designed for long-distance flights. So far this year, Boeing customers have canceled 438 orders for the Max, with hundreds more orders removed from its books because of the low likelihood that they will be fulfilled, the company said Tuesday. After accounting for new sales and cancellations, Boeing has lost a net 381 orders for the year. Also read: EU wins tariff clearance on $4 billion of US imports in Boeing case The WTO’s decision Tuesday rested on a Washington state tax break provided to Boeing and worth about $100 million a year. Lawmakers there repealed the tax break this year with Boeing’s support, but the WTO said the subsidy had nevertheless harmed Airbus from 2012 to 2015. Airbus contends that Boeing continues to receive other preferential tax treatment from the state. “Airbus did not start this WTO dispute, and we do not wish to continue the harm to the customers and suppliers of the aviation industry and to all other sectors impacted,” Guillaume Faury, the company’s chief executive, said in a statement. “It is time to find a solution now so that tariffs can be removed on both sides of the Atlantic.” Boeing said it was “disappointed” that Airbus and the EU had pursued the tariffs even after the tax break’s repeal, but said the company hoped that both would focus “on good-faith efforts to resolve this long-running dispute.” The EU had asked the WTO to authorize more than $8.5 billion in annual tariffs, while the U.S. said they should not exceed $412 million. Also read: EU pushes UK to budge at 'critical stage' in Brexit talks In a statement, Robert Lighthizer, the U.S. trade representative, said the European Union had no valid basis to impose tariffs since Washington had already repealed its tax break, and that the United States would seek more negotiations with Europe. “Any imposition of tariffs based on a measure that has been eliminated is plainly contrary to WTO principles and will force a U.S. response,” he said. “The United States is determined to find a resolution to this dispute that addresses the massive subsidies European governments have provided to Airbus and the harm to U.S. aerospace workers and businesses.” Valdis Dombrovskis, the European commissioner for trade, said in a statement that while the decision allowed the European Union to impose tariffs on American products, it would do so “reluctantly.” “I have been engaging with my American counterpart, Ambassador Lighthizer, and it is my hope that the U.S. will now drop the tariffs imposed on EU exports last year,” he said. “If it does not happen, we will be forced to exercise our rights and impose similar tariffs.” Ole Moehr, an associate director at the Atlantic Council’s GeoEconomics Center, said that, in the short run, there were likely to be more barriers to trade than before, but that the ruling might ultimately “open the door for a trans-Atlantic trade détente.” “Both sides are waiting until the election is settled to reengage and depending on the outcome we could see a ratcheting up of tensions before any potential deepening of trade ties,” Moehr said. “The Airbus-Boeing dispute is one of the keys to the entire trade relationship and today’s decision, combined with the recession triggered by the pandemic, may change the calculus over the long term.” The ruling brings to a close a dispute that formally began in 2004. At the time, the United States and Boeing accused several European nations of violating trade agreements by providing Airbus with below-market loans. That “launch aid” helped Airbus to develop and produce several types of aircraft, allowing it to gain equal footing with Boeing in the global airplane market, despite having less than 25% of the market in 1990, they argued. Last year, the WTO sided with the United States, allowing up to $7.5 billion in annual tariffs on European imports. Europe countered with a formal complaint of its own in 2005, arguing that the United States had similarly provided illegal subsidies to Boeing.

Europe can impose tariffs on US in long-running aircraft battle

One year after sanctioning the EU for its support of Airbus, the World Trade Organization was expected Tuesday to let the bloc impose sanctions on the United States for aid to Boeing.

In the latest development in the 16-year saga between Washington and Brussels over support for their aircraft manufacturers, the EU is expected to get the green light&nbsp;to impose around $4.0 billion in tariffs on US goods and services, according to the Bloomberg news agency.

The European Union and the United States accuse each other of having provided illegal state aid to their respective aircraft manufacturers, and both brought claims before the WTO's trade resolution body.

Last year, the WTO authorised $7.5 billion in US sanctions against European goods and services.

It was the biggest amount authorised to date by the WTO and was a result of EU aid to Airbus that was deemed improper under international trade regulations.

Washington then imposed punitive tariffs of 25 percent on EU products such as wine, cheese and olive oil. The 10 percent tariff on Airbus planes was hiked to 15 percent in March.

The EU has already drawn up a list of US products on which it could impose tariffs, from ketchup to car parts.

Once cleared by the WTO, the EU could impose the tariffs from October 27, a week before the US presidential election.&nbsp;

While several EU leaders have been calling for imposing the tariffs immediately if Washington doesn't agree to drop its tariffs, few expect it to do so.&nbsp;

One industry source expects the WTO ruling to "open the door for negotiations".

Given the crisis the airline industry now finds itself in and the effect that is having on Airbus and Boeing, a long drawn-out battle in which tariffs raise the prices of aircraft does not serve the interests of either the EU or the United States.

That is even more the case for Boeing, which will be looking forward to resuming sales of the 737 MAX once it is cleared to resume flights.

The aircraft has been grounded since March 2019 following two deadly crashes that killed 346 people, which also halted sales.

Any tariffs would make the several hundred aircraft ordered by European airlines even more expensive.

One year after sanctioning the EU for its support of Airbus, the World Trade Organization was expected Tuesday to let the bloc impose sanctions on the United States for aid to Boeing.

One year after sanctioning the EU for its support of Airbus, the World Trade Organization was expected Tuesday to let the bloc impose sanctions on the United States for aid to Boeing. In the latest development in the 16-year saga between Washington and Brussels over support for their aircraft manufacturers, the EU is expected to get the green light to impose around $4.0 billion in tariffs on US goods and services, according to the Bloomberg news agency. The European Union and the United States accuse each other of having provided illegal state aid to their respective aircraft manufacturers, and both brought claims before the WTO's trade resolution body. Last year, the WTO authorised $7.5 billion in US sanctions against European goods and services. It was the biggest amount authorised to date by the WTO and was a result of EU aid to Airbus that was deemed improper under international trade regulations. Washington then imposed punitive tariffs of 25 percent on EU products such as wine, cheese and olive oil. The 10 percent tariff on Airbus planes was hiked to 15 percent in March. The EU has already drawn up a list of US products on which it could impose tariffs, from ketchup to car parts. Once cleared by the WTO, the EU could impose the tariffs from October 27, a week before the US presidential election. While several EU leaders have been calling for imposing the tariffs immediately if Washington doesn't agree to drop its tariffs, few expect it to do so. One industry source expects the WTO ruling to "open the door for negotiations". Given the crisis the airline industry now finds itself in and the effect that is having on Airbus and Boeing, a long drawn-out battle in which tariffs raise the prices of aircraft does not serve the interests of either the EU or the United States. That is even more the case for Boeing, which will be looking forward to resuming sales of the 737 MAX once it is cleared to resume flights. The aircraft has been grounded since March 2019 following two deadly crashes that killed 346 people, which also halted sales. Any tariffs would make the several hundred aircraft ordered by European airlines even more expensive.

EU set to get WTO green light for US tariffs

The&nbsp;European Union demanded "substantive" movement on Tuesday from Britain on fisheries, dispute settlement and guarantees of fair competition in their talks on a post-Brexit trade deal, with Germany saying they were at a "critical stage".

France said the 27-nation bloc must not yield on fishing rights, while Ireland - the&nbsp;EU&nbsp;member most exposed to any abrupt economic split at the end of the year - said Britain was running out of time to seal the terms of a deal.

Britain, the world's sixth-biggest economy, left the&nbsp;EU&nbsp;in January and has since been locked in painstaking talks with the world's largest trading bloc to keep trade flowing freely.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="http://13.235.153.162/business-economy/eu-wins-tariff-clearance-on-4-billion-of-us-imports-in-boeing-case-335072" hreflang="en">EU wins tariff clearance on $4 billion of US imports in Boeing case</a>

EU&nbsp;leaders hold a summit in Brussels on Thursday and Friday to assess progress, and British Prime Minister Boris Johnson has also said he wants to know by Oct. 15 if a deal can be reached.

The&nbsp;European affairs minister of Germany - current holder of the bloc's rotating presidency - said the&nbsp;EU&nbsp;was working hard for a deal but was ready if necessary to trade from 2021 without an accord.

"We are at a very critical stage in the negotiations and we are extremely under pressure," Michael Roth told his 26 fellow ministers. "In terms of substance we have not really made progress."

"We expect substantial progress by our friends in the United Kingdom in key areas: in particular on governance, 'level playing field' and fisheries."

Roth said the&nbsp;EU&nbsp;would step up contingency planning in case of failure in the negotiations on a new partnership - which is meant to cover many areas from trade to transport and nuclear ties - from Jan. 1, when London's post-Brexit standstill transition ends.

A trillion&nbsp;euros of annual trade are at stake.

Johnson's spokesman reiterated Britain's stance that it wants a deal "on the right terms": "... if we can't get there we are ready and willing to move forward with an Australian-style outcome which holds no fear."

The bulk of Australia's exports to the&nbsp;EU&nbsp;are subject to tariffs and quotas set under World Trade Organization terms.

LONG ROAD, LITTLE TIME

Johnson, a key face of the 2016 Brexit campaign, has spoken with French President Emmanuel Macron and German Chancellor Angela Merkel in recent days, and was due to speak on Wednesday with the head of the&nbsp;EU's executive, Ursula von der Leyen.

On Tuesday, Merkel said a deal was "in the interests of all" but also flagged the need to prepare for a no-deal outcome.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="http://13.235.153.162/world/eu-unity-on-getting-a-fair-brexit-deal-strong-says-chief-negotiator-barnier-334978" hreflang="en">EU unity on getting a fair Brexit deal strong, says chief negotiator Barnier</a>

The&nbsp;EU's chief Brexit negotiator Michel Barnier has been downbeat in his assessment of progress, an&nbsp;EU&nbsp;diplomat said: "It is far from sufficient. 'Level playing field', fisheries and enforcement measures remain the key controversial issues."

France has shown little willingness to compromise over future access to fishing waters and sharing quotas, despite growing pressure from others in the&nbsp;EU&nbsp;to help unlock a deal.

French&nbsp;Europe Minister Clement Beaune said the&nbsp;EU&nbsp;must be "very firm" on its priorities, and that safeguards of fair competition were a must to access the&nbsp;EU's internal market of 450 million people without trade barriers.

Macron is expected to hammer home that message at the summit. But, with markets increasingly jittery, the&nbsp;EU&nbsp;leaders also appear certain to grant Britain time for more talks.

"The road ahead is still long and we have little time," said another&nbsp;EU&nbsp;diplomat.

The&nbsp;EU&nbsp;says a deal must be agreed this month to leave time for ratification by the&nbsp;European Parliament. However,&nbsp;EU&nbsp;diplomats told Reuters the bloc was gearing up to negotiate until mid-November to avoid being assigned blame for any fiasco.

"We will negotiate until the last minute," said Konrad Szymanski,&nbsp;European affairs minister of Poland, one of the&nbsp;EU&nbsp;states most keen to keep close ties with Britain.

The European Union demanded "substantive" movement on Tuesday from Britain on fisheries, dispute settlement and guarantees of fair competition in their talks on a post-Brexit trade deal, with Germany saying they were at a "critical stage".

The European Union demanded "substantive" movement on Tuesday from Britain on fisheries, dispute settlement and guarantees of fair competition in their talks on a post-Brexit trade deal, with Germany saying they were at a "critical stage". France said the 27-nation bloc must not yield on fishing rights, while Ireland - the EU member most exposed to any abrupt economic split at the end of the year - said Britain was running out of time to seal the terms of a deal. Britain, the world's sixth-biggest economy, left the EU in January and has since been locked in painstaking talks with the world's largest trading bloc to keep trade flowing freely. Also read: EU wins tariff clearance on $4 billion of US imports in Boeing case EU leaders hold a summit in Brussels on Thursday and Friday to assess progress, and British Prime Minister Boris Johnson has also said he wants to know by Oct. 15 if a deal can be reached. The European affairs minister of Germany - current holder of the bloc's rotating presidency - said the EU was working hard for a deal but was ready if necessary to trade from 2021 without an accord. "We are at a very critical stage in the negotiations and we are extremely under pressure," Michael Roth told his 26 fellow ministers. "In terms of substance we have not really made progress." "We expect substantial progress by our friends in the United Kingdom in key areas: in particular on governance, 'level playing field' and fisheries." Roth said the EU would step up contingency planning in case of failure in the negotiations on a new partnership - which is meant to cover many areas from trade to transport and nuclear ties - from Jan. 1, when London's post-Brexit standstill transition ends. A trillion euros of annual trade are at stake. Johnson's spokesman reiterated Britain's stance that it wants a deal "on the right terms": "... if we can't get there we are ready and willing to move forward with an Australian-style outcome which holds no fear." The bulk of Australia's exports to the EU are subject to tariffs and quotas set under World Trade Organization terms. LONG ROAD, LITTLE TIME Johnson, a key face of the 2016 Brexit campaign, has spoken with French President Emmanuel Macron and German Chancellor Angela Merkel in recent days, and was due to speak on Wednesday with the head of the EU's executive, Ursula von der Leyen. On Tuesday, Merkel said a deal was "in the interests of all" but also flagged the need to prepare for a no-deal outcome. Also read: EU unity on getting a fair Brexit deal strong, says chief negotiator Barnier The EU's chief Brexit negotiator Michel Barnier has been downbeat in his assessment of progress, an EU diplomat said: "It is far from sufficient. 'Level playing field', fisheries and enforcement measures remain the key controversial issues." France has shown little willingness to compromise over future access to fishing waters and sharing quotas, despite growing pressure from others in the EU to help unlock a deal. French Europe Minister Clement Beaune said the EU must be "very firm" on its priorities, and that safeguards of fair competition were a must to access the EU's internal market of 450 million people without trade barriers. Macron is expected to hammer home that message at the summit. But, with markets increasingly jittery, the EU leaders also appear certain to grant Britain time for more talks. "The road ahead is still long and we have little time," said another EU diplomat. The EU says a deal must be agreed this month to leave time for ratification by the European Parliament. However, EU diplomats told Reuters the bloc was gearing up to negotiate until mid-November to avoid being assigned blame for any fiasco. "We will negotiate until the last minute," said Konrad Szymanski, European affairs minister of Poland, one of the EU states most keen to keep close ties with Britain.

EU pushes UK to budge at 'critical stage' in Brexit talks

Foreign Ministers of the European Union agreed in principle on Monday to support a proposal curated by France-Germany to initiate sanctions against Russia over the Novichok poisoning of Russian opposition leader and fierce critic Alexei Navalny.

Reported by news agency AFP, 27 ministers who met for talks in Luxembourg had reached political agreements to begin work on the sanctions, as per the guidelines set out by France and Germany last week.

According to the two countries, Russia is responsible for Navalny’s poisoning, in which a Soviet-era nerve agent Novichok was used. Even though Russia has staunchly denied its role, and the usage of any poisonous substance, tests undertook by Germany revealed that a poisoning substance was actually used on the critic.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="http://13.235.153.162/world/targeted-sanctions-unavoidable-germany-warns-russia-over-navalny-poisoning-333220" hreflang="en">'Targeted sanctions unavoidable': Germany warns Russia over Navalny poisoning</a>

Alexei Navalny, the fierce Kremlin critic who was poisoned with a Soviet-era nerve agent Novichok, and has since recovered called on the European Union to initiate action against oligarchs that are close to Russian administration. The critic of Russia’s government was reportedly poisoned with a new variant hailing from the Novichok group of toxins.

Many countries, especially from the West have warned Russia of sanctions if they don’t assist in investigations. Many have also alleged the role of Russian administration in Navalny’s poisoning.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="http://13.235.153.162/world/poisoned-kremlin-critic-navalny-urges-eu-action-against-profiteers-close-to-russia-333234" hreflang="en">Poisoned Kremlin critic Navalny urges EU action against 'profiteers' close to Russia</a>

"Sanctions against the whole country don't work. The most important thing is to impose entry bans on profiteers of the regime and freeze their assets," Navalny told German newspaper Bild. "They embezzle money, steal billions and at the weekend they fly to Berlin or London, buy expensive apartments and sit in cafes," he added.

He suggested Valery Gergiev, the chief conductor of the Munich Philharmonic as the target for potential sanctions, for he was a staunch supporter of Putin. The EU could freeze the assets and enforce travel bans on Russians that may be involved in Navalny’s poisoning.

Foreign Ministers of the European Union agreed in principle on Monday to support a proposal curated by France-Germany to initiate sanctions against Russia over the Novichok poisoning of Russian opposition leader and fierce critic Alexei Navalny.

Foreign Ministers of the European Union agreed in principle on Monday to support a proposal curated by France-Germany to initiate sanctions against Russia over the Novichok poisoning of Russian opposition leader and fierce critic Alexei Navalny. Reported by news agency AFP, 27 ministers who met for talks in Luxembourg had reached political agreements to begin work on the sanctions, as per the guidelines set out by France and Germany last week. According to the two countries, Russia is responsible for Navalny’s poisoning, in which a Soviet-era nerve agent Novichok was used. Even though Russia has staunchly denied its role, and the usage of any poisonous substance, tests undertook by Germany revealed that a poisoning substance was actually used on the critic. Also read: 'Targeted sanctions unavoidable': Germany warns Russia over Navalny poisoning Alexei Navalny, the fierce Kremlin critic who was poisoned with a Soviet-era nerve agent Novichok, and has since recovered called on the European Union to initiate action against oligarchs that are close to Russian administration. The critic of Russia’s government was reportedly poisoned with a new variant hailing from the Novichok group of toxins. Many countries, especially from the West have warned Russia of sanctions if they don’t assist in investigations. Many have also alleged the role of Russian administration in Navalny’s poisoning. Also read: Poisoned Kremlin critic Navalny urges EU action against 'profiteers' close to Russia "Sanctions against the whole country don't work. The most important thing is to impose entry bans on profiteers of the regime and freeze their assets," Navalny told German newspaper Bild. "They embezzle money, steal billions and at the weekend they fly to Berlin or London, buy expensive apartments and sit in cafes," he added. He suggested Valery Gergiev, the chief conductor of the Munich Philharmonic as the target for potential sanctions, for he was a staunch supporter of Putin. The EU could freeze the assets and enforce travel bans on Russians that may be involved in Navalny’s poisoning.

European Union agrees in principle to sanction Russia over Navalny poisoning

British Prime Minister Boris Johnson said on Friday that&nbsp;Brexit negotiations with the European Union this week have made progress in some areas.

The two sides say they are inching towards a deal that would govern around $900 billion in trade after December&nbsp;31,&nbsp;when the current transitional arrangements end, though sticking points remain on fishing, level playing field issues and governance.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/brexit-provisions-to-stay-in-internal-market-bill-as-uk-shows-no-indication-of-withdrawal-330985">Brexit provisions to stay in Internal Market Bill as UK shows 'no indication' of withdrawal</a>

Britain's Brexit supremo, Michael Gove, said on Monday&nbsp;that the clauses of the Internal Market Bill that undercut the Withdrawal Treaty would remain, despite a demand from the European Union that London scrap them.

The British government unveiled an "Internal Markets Bill" last month which is&nbsp;now winding its way through parliament and would override parts of the Brexit treaty that British Prime Minister Boris Johnson struck with the European Union last year.

Johnson argues it will provide a "safety net" against what he claimed are EU threats to impose tariffs on UK internal trade and even stop food going from mainland Britain to Northern Ireland,&nbsp;although his government has admitted that in overwriting a treaty it breaks international law.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/no-us-uk-trade-deal-if-brexit-risks-northern-irish-peace-deal-biden-to-johnson-328182">No US-UK trade deal if Brexit risks Northern Irish peace deal: Biden to Johnson</a>

The proposed law has infuriated the Europeans, who had demanded that it be withdrawn or amended before a deadline of Wednesday this week,&nbsp;but, after his meeting in Brussels with Sefcovic, Gove insisted it would not be changed.

&nbsp;

&nbsp;

Both London and Brussels say a deal on a free trade agreement must be struck by mid-October to allow time for it to be ratified before coming into force from January 1 next year.

Failure to do so would see trade conducted on World Trade Organization rules, with higher tariffs and quotas and almost certain economic chaos for Britain and Europe.

British Prime Minister Boris Johnson said on Friday that Brexit negotiations with the European Union this week have made progress in some areas. The two sides say they are inching towards a deal that would govern around $900 billion in trade after December 31, when the current transitional arrangements end, though sticking points remain on fishing, level playing field issues and governance.

British Prime Minister Boris Johnson said on Friday that Brexit negotiations with the European Union this week have made progress in some areas. The two sides say they are inching towards a deal that would govern around $900 billion in trade after December 31, when the current transitional arrangements end, though sticking points remain on fishing, level playing field issues and governance. Also read: Brexit provisions to stay in Internal Market Bill as UK shows 'no indication' of withdrawal Britain's Brexit supremo, Michael Gove, said on Monday that the clauses of the Internal Market Bill that undercut the Withdrawal Treaty would remain, despite a demand from the European Union that London scrap them. The British government unveiled an "Internal Markets Bill" last month which is now winding its way through parliament and would override parts of the Brexit treaty that British Prime Minister Boris Johnson struck with the European Union last year. Johnson argues it will provide a "safety net" against what he claimed are EU threats to impose tariffs on UK internal trade and even stop food going from mainland Britain to Northern Ireland, although his government has admitted that in overwriting a treaty it breaks international law. Also read: No US-UK trade deal if Brexit risks Northern Irish peace deal: Biden to Johnson The proposed law has infuriated the Europeans, who had demanded that it be withdrawn or amended before a deadline of Wednesday this week, but, after his meeting in Brussels with Sefcovic, Gove insisted it would not be changed. Both London and Brussels say a deal on a free trade agreement must be struck by mid-October to allow time for it to be ratified before coming into force from January 1 next year. Failure to do so would see trade conducted on World Trade Organization rules, with higher tariffs and quotas and almost certain economic chaos for Britain and Europe.

British Prime Minister Boris Johnson says progress in Brexit talks with EU

Watch today in Your Story: The top court of European Union has delivered a landmark ruling on mass surveillance. EU Court stated that states cannot have unchecked access to data.

Your Story: Top European Union court delivers landmark ruling on mass surveillance

Africa has become the battlefield for global powers. China, India, US, EU, Israel are fighting it out in the continent. Who is winning? and What's it in for Africa. WION's Palki Sharma tells you all about the race for Africa.

Gravitas Plus: The race for Africa

As the deadline for the Brexit deal approaches British PM Boris Johnson has expressed his optimism that the deal will come through. Watch report.

The Brexit Deal: Will Britain crash out of single market with no deal

British Prime Minister Boris Johnson on Friday threw the onus back on the European Union to unblock a trade deal and avoid an abrupt Brexit separation at the end of this year. 
 
"I hope that we get a deal, it's up to our friends," he told the BBC, after the two sides concluded a week of talks with warnings that serious differences were holding up agreement by a mid-October deadline. 
 
"They've done a (free trade) deal with Canada of a kind that we want, why shouldn't they do it with us?" Johnson said. 
 
"We're so near, we've been (EU) members for 45 years. It's all there, it's just up to them," he added, insisting there was "every chance to get a deal" if the EU were "common-sensical".

The British government is concerned&nbsp;that time was running out for a post-Brexit trade deal with the European Union before a mid-October deadline.

Britain's chief negotiator David Frost said on Friday&nbsp;"outlines of an agreement are visible" in many areas but there was "limited progress" on fair competition and state subsidy rules, and a deal on fisheries looked "impossible" without EU movement.

"I am concerned that there is very little time now to resolve these issues ahead of the European Council (EU summit) on 15 October," he added.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/brexit-eu-takes-legal-action-against-uk-over-internal-market-bill-331695" hreflang="en">Brexit: EU takes legal action against UK over Internal Market Bill</a>

The European Union launched a legal case against the United Kingdom on Thursday for undercutting their earlier divorce deal and a senior UK minister said differences remained in talks on a post-Brexit&nbsp;trade agreement.

Controversy over the UK's new Internal Market Bill has thrown the tortuous&nbsp;Brexit&nbsp;process into a fresh crisis while disagreements over corporate subsidies, fisheries and ways to solve disputes are overshadowing parallel trade negotiations.

"We had invited our British friends to remove the problematic parts of their draft Internal Market Bill by the end of September," the head of the EU's executive Commission, Ursula von der Leyen said. "The deadline lapsed yesterday."

With London not budging, she said the Commission started a so-called infringement, an EU legal procedure against countries that violate the bloc's laws, while continuing to work towards implementing the divorce deal, or Withdrawal Agreement.

he United Kingdom says its nations cannot trade freely with each other after&nbsp;Brexit&nbsp;if there is no new trade deal with the EU without breaking the divorce deal provisions on the sensitive Irish border. A government spokesman said on Thursday it had made that clear.

The EU is adamant, however, that it would not implement any new UK deal as long as London undermines the divorce treaty.

British Prime Minister Boris Johnson on Friday threw the onus back on the European Union to unblock a trade deal and avoid an abrupt Brexit separation at the end of this year.

British Prime Minister Boris Johnson on Friday threw the onus back on the European Union to unblock a trade deal and avoid an abrupt Brexit separation at the end of this year. "I hope that we get a deal, it's up to our friends," he told the BBC, after the two sides concluded a week of talks with warnings that serious differences were holding up agreement by a mid-October deadline. "They've done a (free trade) deal with Canada of a kind that we want, why shouldn't they do it with us?" Johnson said. "We're so near, we've been (EU) members for 45 years. It's all there, it's just up to them," he added, insisting there was "every chance to get a deal" if the EU were "common-sensical". The British government is concerned that time was running out for a post-Brexit trade deal with the European Union before a mid-October deadline. Britain's chief negotiator David Frost said on Friday "outlines of an agreement are visible" in many areas but there was "limited progress" on fair competition and state subsidy rules, and a deal on fisheries looked "impossible" without EU movement. "I am concerned that there is very little time now to resolve these issues ahead of the European Council (EU summit) on 15 October," he added. Also read: Brexit: EU takes legal action against UK over Internal Market Bill The European Union launched a legal case against the United Kingdom on Thursday for undercutting their earlier divorce deal and a senior UK minister said differences remained in talks on a post-Brexit trade agreement. Controversy over the UK's new Internal Market Bill has thrown the tortuous Brexit process into a fresh crisis while disagreements over corporate subsidies, fisheries and ways to solve disputes are overshadowing parallel trade negotiations. "We had invited our British friends to remove the problematic parts of their draft Internal Market Bill by the end of September," the head of the EU's executive Commission, Ursula von der Leyen said. "The deadline lapsed yesterday." With London not budging, she said the Commission started a so-called infringement, an EU legal procedure against countries that violate the bloc's laws, while continuing to work towards implementing the divorce deal, or Withdrawal Agreement. he United Kingdom says its nations cannot trade freely with each other after Brexit if there is no new trade deal with the EU without breaking the divorce deal provisions on the sensitive Irish border. A government spokesman said on Thursday it had made that clear. The EU is adamant, however, that it would not implement any new UK deal as long as London undermines the divorce treaty.

UK PM Johnson says Brexit trade deal 'up to European Union'

European Union leaders gathered in Brussels today for a special summit to discuss serious foreign policy challenges. WION's Palki tells you more.

Gravitas: European Leaders meet to discuss Foreign Policy

European Union leaders have finally agreed to impose sanctions on about 40 individuals in Belarus.

EU summit opens doors to sanctions in Belarus

The European Union could impose sanctions on Ankara if Turkish "provocations and pressures" continue in the East Mediterranean.

European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen said on Friday after a meeting of the 27-nation bloc's leaders, "We want a positive and constructive relationship with Turkey, and this would be also be very much in Ankara's interest."

"But it will only work if the provocations and pressures stop. We therefore expect that Turkey from now on abstains from unilateral actions. In caser of such renewed actions by Ankara the EU will use all its instruments and options available," she added.

But Turkey largely remained unperturbed and unswayed by the statement.

Turkey would be even more determined to protect its territorial rights in the Eastern Mediterranean if the European Union ultimately decides to impose sanctions on it over offshore oil and gas exploration, a Turkish Foreign Ministry official said.

The senior official, according to Reuters, said sanctions would not deter Turkey and suggested they could imperil dialogue planned between Ankara and Athens over disputed maritime boundaries and oil and gas rights.

The warning came as EU leaders broke a diplomatic deadlock early on Friday and assured bloc member Cyprus it would punish Turkey if it continued operations in disputed waters. Sanctions could come as soon as December if "provocations" have not stopped, it said.

Before the post-midnight deal, Cyprus had demanded sanctions on Turkey over what it calls Ankara's "gunboat diplomacy" and violations of the island nation`s maritime shelf.

Tensions have simmered since Turkish and Greek frigates collided at sea in August near one of Turkey`s exploration vessels, though things have cooled a bit since Turkey and Greece, both members of NATO, said they would resume "exploratory talks" that ended in 2016.

The talks are an effort "to bring Greece into dialogue and finally Greece agreed to that, and we hope to resume those soon", likely this month, the Turkish official said.

But "if the EU applies sanctions this will not deter us. On the contrary this would increase our resolve and would be a negative stance on the part of the European Union", he said.

"We will continue our offshore programme as we have been doing. Sanctions are not the right way (and) will not deter us to protect our rights to our continental shelf and also the rights of the Turkish Cypriots," the official added.

Speaking to parliament on Thursday, President Tayyip Erdogan said Turkey preferred to resolve disagreements in the Eastern Mediterranean through dialogue and was not seeking tensions and clashes in the region.

(with inputs from agencies)

The European Union could impose sanctions on Ankara if Turkish "provocations and pressures" continue in the East Mediterranean. European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen said on Friday after a meeting of the 27-nation bloc's leaders, "We want a positive and constructive relationship with Turkey, and this would be also be very much in Ankara's interest.

The European Union could impose sanctions on Ankara if Turkish "provocations and pressures" continue in the East Mediterranean. European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen said on Friday after a meeting of the 27-nation bloc's leaders, "We want a positive and constructive relationship with Turkey, and this would be also be very much in Ankara's interest." "But it will only work if the provocations and pressures stop. We therefore expect that Turkey from now on abstains from unilateral actions. In caser of such renewed actions by Ankara the EU will use all its instruments and options available," she added. But Turkey largely remained unperturbed and unswayed by the statement. Turkey would be even more determined to protect its territorial rights in the Eastern Mediterranean if the European Union ultimately decides to impose sanctions on it over offshore oil and gas exploration, a Turkish Foreign Ministry official said. The senior official, according to Reuters, said sanctions would not deter Turkey and suggested they could imperil dialogue planned between Ankara and Athens over disputed maritime boundaries and oil and gas rights. The warning came as EU leaders broke a diplomatic deadlock early on Friday and assured bloc member Cyprus it would punish Turkey if it continued operations in disputed waters. Sanctions could come as soon as December if "provocations" have not stopped, it said. Before the post-midnight deal, Cyprus had demanded sanctions on Turkey over what it calls Ankara's "gunboat diplomacy" and violations of the island nation`s maritime shelf. Tensions have simmered since Turkish and Greek frigates collided at sea in August near one of Turkey`s exploration vessels, though things have cooled a bit since Turkey and Greece, both members of NATO, said they would resume "exploratory talks" that ended in 2016. The talks are an effort "to bring Greece into dialogue and finally Greece agreed to that, and we hope to resume those soon", likely this month, the Turkish official said. But "if the EU applies sanctions this will not deter us. On the contrary this would increase our resolve and would be a negative stance on the part of the European Union", he said. "We will continue our offshore programme as we have been doing. Sanctions are not the right way (and) will not deter us to protect our rights to our continental shelf and also the rights of the Turkish Cypriots," the official added. Speaking to parliament on Thursday, President Tayyip Erdogan said Turkey preferred to resolve disagreements in the Eastern Mediterranean through dialogue and was not seeking tensions and clashes in the region. (with inputs from agencies)

EU warns Turkey of sanctions; Ankara rejects threat

The&nbsp;European Union on Thursday&nbsp;launched a legal case against Britain over its new Internal Market Bill that would breach parts of the legally binding divorce agreement the two sides reached late last year.

The&nbsp;action underscored EU's worsening relations with Britain, which was a member of the bloc until January 31.

Both sides are trying to forge a rudimentary free trade agreement before the end of the year, but the fight over the controversial UK Internal Market bill has soured relations this month.

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uk-bill-would-break-international-law-in-a-specific-and-limited-way-minister-says-326041">UK bill would break international law 'in a specific and limited way', minister says</a>

The EU had given London until Wednesday to withdraw the bill but instead UK&nbsp;lawmakers voted 340-256 Tuesday to push the legislation past its last major House of Commons hurdle.

It must also be approved by the House of Lords, where it is sure to meet strong opposition because it breaches international law. 
At the same time, EU and UK officials were continuing talks on a trade deal, going into detailed negotiations over everything from fisheries rights, state aid rules and legal oversight in case of disputes.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/brexit-provisions-to-stay-in-internal-market-bill-as-uk-shows-no-indication-of-withdrawal-330985">Brexit provisions to stay in Internal Market Bill as UK shows 'no indication' of withdrawal</a>

European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen said the draft bill was a "breach of obligation of good faith" established in the Withdrawal Agreement, and would contradict the protocol of Ireland/Northern Ireland.

Such so-called infringements could lead to hefty fines being imposed by the&nbsp;EU's top court but that takes years, leaving plenty of time for the UK to change tack.

London now has one month now to reply to a formal letter of complaint from the Commission, which will then assess whether the answer is satisfactory and can then request that the UK falls back in line. If that fails, it can sue at the Luxembourg-based&nbsp;European Court of Justice.

The move comes as British and&nbsp;EU&nbsp;negotiators struggle to close the gap on state aid in parallel trade negotiations that have been overshadowed by the new controversy over the Internal Market Bill.

The European Union on Thursday launched a legal case against Britain over its new Internal Market Bill that would breach parts of the legally binding divorce agreement the two sides reached late last year.

The European Union on Thursday launched a legal case against Britain over its new Internal Market Bill that would breach parts of the legally binding divorce agreement the two sides reached late last year. The action underscored EU's worsening relations with Britain, which was a member of the bloc until January 31. Both sides are trying to forge a rudimentary free trade agreement before the end of the year, but the fight over the controversial UK Internal Market bill has soured relations this month. Also read: UK bill would break international law 'in a specific and limited way', minister says The EU had given London until Wednesday to withdraw the bill but instead UK lawmakers voted 340-256 Tuesday to push the legislation past its last major House of Commons hurdle. It must also be approved by the House of Lords, where it is sure to meet strong opposition because it breaches international law. At the same time, EU and UK officials were continuing talks on a trade deal, going into detailed negotiations over everything from fisheries rights, state aid rules and legal oversight in case of disputes. Also read: Brexit provisions to stay in Internal Market Bill as UK shows 'no indication' of withdrawal European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen said the draft bill was a "breach of obligation of good faith" established in the Withdrawal Agreement, and would contradict the protocol of Ireland/Northern Ireland. Such so-called infringements could lead to hefty fines being imposed by the EU's top court but that takes years, leaving plenty of time for the UK to change tack. London now has one month now to reply to a formal letter of complaint from the Commission, which will then assess whether the answer is satisfactory and can then request that the UK falls back in line. If that fails, it can sue at the Luxembourg-based European Court of Justice. The move comes as British and EU negotiators struggle to close the gap on state aid in parallel trade negotiations that have been overshadowed by the new controversy over the Internal Market Bill.

Brexit: EU takes legal action against UK over Internal Market Bill

French President Emmanuel Macron insisted on Monday that Europe should cooperate with Russia to build peace in Europe.

French Prez Macron defends calls for cooperation with Russia

The UK will face severe disruption at its ports and food shortages if it fails to strike a trade deal with the European Union before the end of the year. Watch report.

How will the post-Brexit Britain look?

Swiss voters overwhelmingly rejected on Sunday a right-wing party`s attempt to scrap a pact allowing the free movement of people from the European Union, opting for stability amid the economic uncertainty caused by the coronavirus pandemic.

The Swiss People`s Party (SVP) had forced a referendum on the EU agreement in a bid to curb immigration to the country where foreigners make up a quarter of the population.

The measure lost, as expected, by a 62%-38% margin.

"The bilateral path is the right one for Switzerland and for the EU. The Swiss people have confirmed this path again today," Justice Minister Karin Keller-Sutter told reporters in Bern.

"Today is a great day for the relations between the European Union and Switzerland," European Council President Charles Michel tweeted. "The Swiss people have spoken &amp; sent a clear message: together we have a great future ahead of us."

The SVP - the biggest party in parliament - has long pushed to take back control of immigration, echoing some arguments pro-Brexit politicians used in the run-up to Britain`s exit from the EU. It won a referendum on the issue in 2014, only to see parliament water down its implementation.

Opponents said the plan would have robbed business of skilled workers and torpedoed accords that enhance non-EU member Switzerland`s access to the crucial EU single market.

Around two-thirds of the 2.1 million foreigners living in Switzerland in 2019 were citizens of the EU, as well as Iceland, Norway and Liechtenstein, which with Switzerland are members of the European Free Trade Association (EFTA).

More than 450,000 Swiss live in the EU.

The domestic political battle immediately turned to Switzerland`s biggest foreign policy headache: a stalled treaty meant to cement ties with the EU but which critics say infringes too much on Swiss sovereignty and would never win a referendum.

With questions open over state aid, rules to protect high Swiss wages, and access to welfare benefits, the Swiss have dragged their feet while trying to forge a domestic consensus, triggering a row over cross-border stock trading.

"The government will determine Switzerland`s position in the coming weeks and take up discussions with the EU over the issues that remain open," Keller-Sutter said.

Voters also blocked an attempt to make it easier to shoot wolves deemed a threat to livestock. 
They narrowly approved the government`s plans to buy new fighter jets for up to 6 billion Swiss francs ($6.46 billion).

Swiss voters overwhelmingly rejected on Sunday a right-wing party`s attempt to scrap a pact allowing the free movement of people from the European Union, opting for stability amid the economic uncertainty caused by the coronavirus pandemic.

Swiss voters overwhelmingly rejected on Sunday a right-wing party`s attempt to scrap a pact allowing the free movement of people from the European Union, opting for stability amid the economic uncertainty caused by the coronavirus pandemic. The Swiss People`s Party (SVP) had forced a referendum on the EU agreement in a bid to curb immigration to the country where foreigners make up a quarter of the population. The measure lost, as expected, by a 62%-38% margin. "The bilateral path is the right one for Switzerland and for the EU. The Swiss people have confirmed this path again today," Justice Minister Karin Keller-Sutter told reporters in Bern. "Today is a great day for the relations between the European Union and Switzerland," European Council President Charles Michel tweeted. "The Swiss people have spoken & sent a clear message: together we have a great future ahead of us." The SVP - the biggest party in parliament - has long pushed to take back control of immigration, echoing some arguments pro-Brexit politicians used in the run-up to Britain`s exit from the EU. It won a referendum on the issue in 2014, only to see parliament water down its implementation. Opponents said the plan would have robbed business of skilled workers and torpedoed accords that enhance non-EU member Switzerland`s access to the crucial EU single market. Around two-thirds of the 2.1 million foreigners living in Switzerland in 2019 were citizens of the EU, as well as Iceland, Norway and Liechtenstein, which with Switzerland are members of the European Free Trade Association (EFTA). More than 450,000 Swiss live in the EU. The domestic political battle immediately turned to Switzerland`s biggest foreign policy headache: a stalled treaty meant to cement ties with the EU but which critics say infringes too much on Swiss sovereignty and would never win a referendum. With questions open over state aid, rules to protect high Swiss wages, and access to welfare benefits, the Swiss have dragged their feet while trying to forge a domestic consensus, triggering a row over cross-border stock trading. "The government will determine Switzerland`s position in the coming weeks and take up discussions with the EU over the issues that remain open," Keller-Sutter said. Voters also blocked an attempt to make it easier to shoot wolves deemed a threat to livestock. They narrowly approved the government`s plans to buy new fighter jets for up to 6 billion Swiss francs ($6.46 billion).

Swiss voters clearly reject curbs on EU immigration

The European Union said that President Alexander Lukashenko is not the legitimate president of Belarus, on Thursday. Saying his abrupt swearing-in on Wednesday went directly against the will of the people.

European Union: Lukashenko is not the legitimate Belarus president

Brussels has launched an overhaul of the EU’s much-criticised migration policy, risking a revival of the internal battles that were first sparked by the arrival of more than 1m people in the bloc in 2015.

EU unveils proposals to overhaul migration policy

President Alexander Lukashenko is not the legitimate president of Belarus, the European Union said on Thursday, saying his abrupt swearing-in on Wednesday went directly against the will of the people.

EU says Lukashenko is not legitimate Belarus president

Belarusian leader Alexander Lukashenko on Thursday responded defiantly to the European Union and the United States which refused to recognise his inauguration as president citing rigged polls.

"They're shouting that they don't recognise us," Lukashenko said at a meeting with the Chinese Ambassador Cui Qiming.

A number of Western countries have refused to acknowledge Lukashenko as president, following his inauguration on Wednesday.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/cannot-consider-lukashenko-legitimately-elected-leader-of-belarus-us-329799" hreflang="en">Cannot consider Lukashenko legitimately elected leader of Belarus: US</a>

He claimed to have won 80 percent of the vote in August 9 polls despite huge support for his opposition rival, Svetlana Tikhanovskaya.

The United States described the elections as "fraudulent."

Lukashenko insisted: "We never asked anyone to recognise or not recognise our elections, or to recognise the legitimacy of the re-elected president or not."

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/thousands-protest-in-minsk-after-belarusian-leader-lukashenko-hastily-sworn-in-329768" hreflang="en">Thousands protest in Minsk after Belarusian leader Lukashenko hastily sworn-in</a>

On Thursday, the European Union said that Lukashenko's inauguration for a sixth term the day before lacked "any democratic legitimacy" and was reviewing its relations with Minsk.

Earlier on Wednesday, the United States and European countries including Germany said they refused to recognise Lukashenko as the president of the ex-Soviet state because the elections were not free or fair.&nbsp;

The non-transparent ballot included several days of early voting while&nbsp;Belarus&nbsp;failed to invite international observer group OSCE in time.

The opposition has called for fresh elections to be held according to international standards.

The authoritarian leader,&nbsp;in power since 1994,&nbsp;said of the inauguration that "the main thing is that this should correspond to our country's constitution. And if they see contradictions, let them say so."&nbsp;

Lukashenko also responded to criticism of his decision to hold his inauguration without prior announcement and without live television coverage, in an apparent move to prevent protesters gathering.

The Belarusian strongman said that his motorcade drove through the city and some 2,000 people were invited to the ceremony including the military, arguing "there was no secret."

Several thousand protesters took to the streets of Minsk on Wednesday evening and the interior ministry said police detained 252 demonstrators in the capital.

Belarusian leader Alexander Lukashenko on Thursday responded defiantly to the European Union and the United States which refused to recognise his inauguration as president citing rigged polls.

Belarusian leader Alexander Lukashenko on Thursday responded defiantly to the European Union and the United States which refused to recognise his inauguration as president citing rigged polls. "They're shouting that they don't recognise us," Lukashenko said at a meeting with the Chinese Ambassador Cui Qiming. A number of Western countries have refused to acknowledge Lukashenko as president, following his inauguration on Wednesday. Also read: Cannot consider Lukashenko legitimately elected leader of Belarus: US He claimed to have won 80 percent of the vote in August 9 polls despite huge support for his opposition rival, Svetlana Tikhanovskaya. The United States described the elections as "fraudulent." Lukashenko insisted: "We never asked anyone to recognise or not recognise our elections, or to recognise the legitimacy of the re-elected president or not." Also read: Thousands protest in Minsk after Belarusian leader Lukashenko hastily sworn-in On Thursday, the European Union said that Lukashenko's inauguration for a sixth term the day before lacked "any democratic legitimacy" and was reviewing its relations with Minsk. Earlier on Wednesday, the United States and European countries including Germany said they refused to recognise Lukashenko as the president of the ex-Soviet state because the elections were not free or fair. The non-transparent ballot included several days of early voting while Belarus failed to invite international observer group OSCE in time. The opposition has called for fresh elections to be held according to international standards. The authoritarian leader, in power since 1994, said of the inauguration that "the main thing is that this should correspond to our country's constitution. And if they see contradictions, let them say so." Lukashenko also responded to criticism of his decision to hold his inauguration without prior announcement and without live television coverage, in an apparent move to prevent protesters gathering. The Belarusian strongman said that his motorcade drove through the city and some 2,000 people were invited to the ceremony including the military, arguing "there was no secret." Several thousand protesters took to the streets of Minsk on Wednesday evening and the interior ministry said police detained 252 demonstrators in the capital.

Belarusian leader Lukashenko shrugs off Western vote rejection

EU plans tougher controls in Migration policy overhaul

Facebook has told Ireland’s High Court it cannot see how its services could operate in the European Union if regulators freeze its data transfer mechanism.

According to the Sunday Business Post, the US social media giant last week said that the Irish Data Protection Commission, its lead EU regulator, had made a preliminary decision that the mechanism it uses to transfer data from the EU to the United States “cannot in practice be used”.

Facebook requested and secured a temporary freeze on the order and a court review in the Irish High Court, which is due to consider the issue in November.

In an affidavit submitted to the court to request that the order be frozen, Yvonne Cunnane, Facebook Ireland’s head of data protection and associate general counsel, said it was not clear how the company could continue providing services in the EU if the Irish order is enforced, the Sunday Business Post reported.

“It is not clear to (Facebook) how, in those circumstances, it could continue to provide the Facebook and Instagram services in the EU,” the newspaper quoted the affidavit as saying.

In a September 9 blog post that first confirmed the investigation by the Irish regulator, Facebook said it “relied on the mechanism in question - under what are known as standard contractual clauses (SCCs) - to transfer data to countries outside the EU and that a ban would have “a far reaching effect on businesses that rely on SCCs”.

The Irish investigation follows a ruling by the Court of Justice of the European Union in July on when SCCs can be used legally.

The ruling was in response to EU concerns that the surveillance regime in the United States might not respect the privacy rights of EU citizens when their personal data is sent to the United States for commercial use.

Facebook has told Ireland’s High Court it cannot see how its services could operate in the European Union if regulators freeze its data transfer mechanism. According to the Sunday Business Post, the US social media giant last week said that the Irish Data Protection Commission, its lead EU regulator, had made a preliminary decision that the mechanism it uses to transfer data from the EU to the United States “cannot in practice be used”.

Facebook has told Ireland’s High Court it cannot see how its services could operate in the European Union if regulators freeze its data transfer mechanism. According to the Sunday Business Post, the US social media giant last week said that the Irish Data Protection Commission, its lead EU regulator, had made a preliminary decision that the mechanism it uses to transfer data from the EU to the United States “cannot in practice be used”. Facebook requested and secured a temporary freeze on the order and a court review in the Irish High Court, which is due to consider the issue in November. In an affidavit submitted to the court to request that the order be frozen, Yvonne Cunnane, Facebook Ireland’s head of data protection and associate general counsel, said it was not clear how the company could continue providing services in the EU if the Irish order is enforced, the Sunday Business Post reported. “It is not clear to (Facebook) how, in those circumstances, it could continue to provide the Facebook and Instagram services in the EU,” the newspaper quoted the affidavit as saying. In a September 9 blog post that first confirmed the investigation by the Irish regulator, Facebook said it “relied on the mechanism in question - under what are known as standard contractual clauses (SCCs) - to transfer data to countries outside the EU and that a ban would have “a far reaching effect on businesses that rely on SCCs”. The Irish investigation follows a ruling by the Court of Justice of the European Union in July on when SCCs can be used legally. The ruling was in response to EU concerns that the surveillance regime in the United States might not respect the privacy rights of EU citizens when their personal data is sent to the United States for commercial use.

Facebook tells Irish court that probe threatens its EU operations

Belarus&nbsp;opposition leader Svetlana Tikhanovskaya on Monday urged the EU to show courage and step up its support for her movement, as the bloc's internal squabbles about sanctions rolled on.

Tikhanovskaya met EU foreign ministers in Brussels and urged them to sanction Lukashenko but, despite repeated statements condemning the veteran strongman and warning of measures, after 44 days the bloc has yet to act.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/belarusian-authorities-bring-military-trucks-to-thwart-planned-protest-328882" hreflang="en">Belarusian authorities bring military trucks to thwart planned protest</a>

"EU leaders have reasons not to push sanctions but I asked them to be more brave,"&nbsp;Belarus&nbsp;opposition leader Sviatlana Tsikhanouskaya, who fled to Lithuania after the election, told reporters after meeting foreign ministers.

"Sanctions are important in our fight because it's part of pressure that could force the so-called authorities to start dialogue with us in the opposition council."

The EU said in late August it would impose asset freezes and travel bans on&nbsp;Belarusian officials. But sanctions require agreement among all 27 member states, and the&nbsp;Belarus&nbsp;issue has become entangled in a debate over separate sanctions against Turkey, sought by Cyprus in a dispute over energy resources.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/mass-rallies-and-police-data-leaks-in-belarus-keep-pressure-on-lukashenko-329061" hreflang="en">Mass rallies and police data leaks in Belarus keep pressure on Lukashenko</a>

The former Soviet republic has been convulsed by unprecedented demonstrations against President Alexander Lukashenko since he was returned to power in a disputed August 9 election and launched a brutal crackdown.

Cyprus says it supports sanctions on&nbsp;Belarus&nbsp;but wants the bloc to act over Turkey as well.

"Our reaction to any kind of violation of our core, basic values and principles cannot be a la carte. It needs to be consistent," Foreign Minister Nikos Christodoulides said.

EU leaders will discuss the Cyprus issue on Thursday at a summit. EU diplomats say Germany is concerned sanctions would undermine diplomatic progress in easing tension with Ankara.

Lithuania's Foreign Minister Linas Linkevicius, one of the strongest advocates for&nbsp;Belarus&nbsp;sanctions, said he hoped other EU countries "will not keep the European Union in limbo and will not take (it) hostage".

The presidents of Lithuania, Poland and Romania said on Monday they will ask EU leaders at this week's summit to offer an economic support package for&nbsp;Belarus&nbsp;if it holds a democratic election. That would include a favourable trade regime with the EU, visa-free travel and support as a candidate for the World Trade Organization.

Belarus opposition leader Svetlana Tikhanovskaya on Monday urged the EU to show courage and step up its support for her movement, as the bloc's internal squabbles about sanctions rolled on.

Belarus opposition leader Svetlana Tikhanovskaya on Monday urged the EU to show courage and step up its support for her movement, as the bloc's internal squabbles about sanctions rolled on. Tikhanovskaya met EU foreign ministers in Brussels and urged them to sanction Lukashenko but, despite repeated statements condemning the veteran strongman and warning of measures, after 44 days the bloc has yet to act. Also read: Belarusian authorities bring military trucks to thwart planned protest "EU leaders have reasons not to push sanctions but I asked them to be more brave," Belarus opposition leader Sviatlana Tsikhanouskaya, who fled to Lithuania after the election, told reporters after meeting foreign ministers. "Sanctions are important in our fight because it's part of pressure that could force the so-called authorities to start dialogue with us in the opposition council." The EU said in late August it would impose asset freezes and travel bans on Belarusian officials. But sanctions require agreement among all 27 member states, and the Belarus issue has become entangled in a debate over separate sanctions against Turkey, sought by Cyprus in a dispute over energy resources. Also read: Mass rallies and police data leaks in Belarus keep pressure on Lukashenko The former Soviet republic has been convulsed by unprecedented demonstrations against President Alexander Lukashenko since he was returned to power in a disputed August 9 election and launched a brutal crackdown. Cyprus says it supports sanctions on Belarus but wants the bloc to act over Turkey as well. "Our reaction to any kind of violation of our core, basic values and principles cannot be a la carte. It needs to be consistent," Foreign Minister Nikos Christodoulides said. EU leaders will discuss the Cyprus issue on Thursday at a summit. EU diplomats say Germany is concerned sanctions would undermine diplomatic progress in easing tension with Ankara. Lithuania's Foreign Minister Linas Linkevicius, one of the strongest advocates for Belarus sanctions, said he hoped other EU countries "will not keep the European Union in limbo and will not take (it) hostage". The presidents of Lithuania, Poland and Romania said on Monday they will ask EU leaders at this week's summit to offer an economic support package for Belarus if it holds a democratic election. That would include a favourable trade regime with the EU, visa-free travel and support as a candidate for the World Trade Organization.

Belarus opposition leader urges European Union to approve sanctions on corrupt officials

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Poland on Thursday proposed an EU stabilisation fund for Belarus worth at least $1.2 billion, as a top opposition leader prepared to meet EU foreign ministers in Brussels.

Warsaw's call for financial support comes days after Russian President Vladimir Putin backed embattled Belarusian strongman Alexander Lukashenko and promised a $1.5 billion loan.

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/fineprint-putin-promises-15-billion-loan-to-lukashenko-327782/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Morawiecki, whose call for a “Marshall Plan” alluded to Europe’s reconstruction after World War Two, said the financial assistance forms part of the support package for Belarus which he will propose at the next EU summit on September&nbsp;24-25.

Lithuania and Poland’s partners in the Visegrad Four grouping, Hungary, the Czech Republic and Slovakia,&nbsp;support the plan, Morawiecki said.

"The fund should really be significant... so at least a billion euros at this stage," he said at a joint press conference with his Lithuanian counterpart in Vilnius.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/we-dont-recognise-lukashenko-as-legitimate-president-european-union-328038" hreflang="en">We don't recognise Lukashenko as legitimate president: European Union</a>

International Monetary Fund (IMF) could also contribute the fund, meant to prop up Belarus currency, stabilize its economy and allow the country to borrow on its own, Morawiecki said.

The plan also includes an opening of EU markets to Belarus businesses and easier visas to its citizens, to make Belarus economy less reliant on cheap energy from Russia, he said.

The proposal comes after weeks of unprecedented protests against Lukashenko's 26-year rule that have been met with a violent crackdown.

Journalists have also been targeted and on Thursday a number of independent Belarusian media ran with blank spaces instead of images on Thursday to protest the jailing of two photographers for 11 days for covering protests.

"We are demanding that pressure on journalists be halted," said tut.by, a top independent Belarusian outlet. "We will fight for our rights."

The protests followed a presidential election on August 9 in which Lukashenko and his rival Svetlana Tikhanovskaya both claimed victory.

Poland on Thursday proposed an EU stabilisation fund for Belarus worth at least $1.2 billion, as a top opposition leader prepared to meet EU foreign ministers in Brussels.

Poland on Thursday proposed an EU stabilisation fund for Belarus worth at least $1.2 billion, as a top opposition leader prepared to meet EU foreign ministers in Brussels. Warsaw's call for financial support comes days after Russian President Vladimir Putin backed embattled Belarusian strongman Alexander Lukashenko and promised a $1.5 billion loan. Morawiecki, whose call for a “Marshall Plan” alluded to Europe’s reconstruction after World War Two, said the financial assistance forms part of the support package for Belarus which he will propose at the next EU summit on September 24-25. Lithuania and Poland’s partners in the Visegrad Four grouping, Hungary, the Czech Republic and Slovakia, support the plan, Morawiecki said. "The fund should really be significant... so at least a billion euros at this stage," he said at a joint press conference with his Lithuanian counterpart in Vilnius. Also read: We don't recognise Lukashenko as legitimate president: European Union International Monetary Fund (IMF) could also contribute the fund, meant to prop up Belarus currency, stabilize its economy and allow the country to borrow on its own, Morawiecki said. The plan also includes an opening of EU markets to Belarus businesses and easier visas to its citizens, to make Belarus economy less reliant on cheap energy from Russia, he said. The proposal comes after weeks of unprecedented protests against Lukashenko's 26-year rule that have been met with a violent crackdown. Journalists have also been targeted and on Thursday a number of independent Belarusian media ran with blank spaces instead of images on Thursday to protest the jailing of two photographers for 11 days for covering protests. "We are demanding that pressure on journalists be halted," said tut.by, a top independent Belarusian outlet. "We will fight for our rights." The protests followed a presidential election on August 9 in which Lukashenko and his rival Svetlana Tikhanovskaya both claimed victory.

'New Marshall Plan': Poland proposes EU fund for Belarus worth $1.2 billion

A day after the Belarusian leader was welcomed by Russian President Vladimir Putin, European Union’s diplomatic chief has said that the European Union does not recognize Alexander Lukashenko as the legitimate president of Belarus. 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/thousands-of-women-protest-in-belarus-demanding-lukashenkos-resignation-327120">Also read | Thousands of women protest in Belarus demanding Lukashenko's resignation</a> 
 
Josep Borrell, the EU’s high representative for foreign affairs, told the European Parliament the August 9 election that returned the veteran strongman to power was fraudulent. 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/belarus-protest-leader-says-she-was-threatened-with-expulsion-alive-or-in-bits-326689">Also read | Belarus protest leader says she was threatened with expulsion 'alive or in bits'</a>

“The situation is clear for us. We consider the elections of August 9 fraudulent. We don’t recognize Lukashenko as the legitimate president of Belarus”, - said Borrell.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/if-belarus-falls-russia-will-be-next-says-lukashenko-326093">Also read | If Belarus falls, Russia will be next, says Lukashenko</a> 
 
He added that more than 7,500 peaceful protesters have been detained and 500 cases of torture have been documented. 
 
Unprecedented demonstrations broke out in Belarus last month after strongman President Alexander Lukashenko, who has ruled the ex-Soviet state for 26 years, claimed to have defeated opposition candidate Svetlana Tikhanovskaya and won re-election with 80 percent of the vote on August 9. 
 
Protesters say the election was rigged to hand Lukashenko a phoney landslide win and that Tikhanovskaya - who has since fled to Lithuania - was the real winner. 
 
Thousands of protesters were on the roads, potentially setting the scene for a new show-down with riot police.&nbsp; 
 
As the demand for change intensifies and reaches even the factories that are the pride of Alexander Lukashenko’s neo-Soviet economy, the authoritarian ruler ends the week clinging on to power in defiance of an ever-broader coalition of opponents. But from the beginning, this has been an uprising inspired and led by women. 
 
(With inputs from agencies)

A day after the Belarusian leader was welcomed by Russian President Vladimir Putin, European Union’s diplomatic chief has said that the European Union does not recognize Alexander Lukashenko as the legitimate president of Belarus.

A day after the Belarusian leader was welcomed by Russian President Vladimir Putin, European Union’s diplomatic chief has said that the European Union does not recognize Alexander Lukashenko as the legitimate president of Belarus. Also read | Thousands of women protest in Belarus demanding Lukashenko's resignation Josep Borrell, the EU’s high representative for foreign affairs, told the European Parliament the August 9 election that returned the veteran strongman to power was fraudulent. Also read | Belarus protest leader says she was threatened with expulsion 'alive or in bits' “The situation is clear for us. We consider the elections of August 9 fraudulent. We don’t recognize Lukashenko as the legitimate president of Belarus”, - said Borrell. Also read | If Belarus falls, Russia will be next, says Lukashenko He added that more than 7,500 peaceful protesters have been detained and 500 cases of torture have been documented. Unprecedented demonstrations broke out in Belarus last month after strongman President Alexander Lukashenko, who has ruled the ex-Soviet state for 26 years, claimed to have defeated opposition candidate Svetlana Tikhanovskaya and won re-election with 80 percent of the vote on August 9. Protesters say the election was rigged to hand Lukashenko a phoney landslide win and that Tikhanovskaya - who has since fled to Lithuania - was the real winner. Thousands of protesters were on the roads, potentially setting the scene for a new show-down with riot police. As the demand for change intensifies and reaches even the factories that are the pride of Alexander Lukashenko’s neo-Soviet economy, the authoritarian ruler ends the week clinging on to power in defiance of an ever-broader coalition of opponents. But from the beginning, this has been an uprising inspired and led by women. (With inputs from agencies)

We don't recognise Lukashenko as legitimate president: European Union

The head of the European Commission said on Wednesday the chances of reaching a trade deal with Britain were fading by the day as the British government pushes ahead with moves that would breach their divorce treaty.

The British government announced draft legislation last week which it acknowledges would violate its international legal obligations and undercut parts of the divorce deal it signed before Britain formally left the European Union in January.

Brussels wants Prime Minister Boris Johnson to scrap what is known as the Internal Market Bill, saying it could sink talks on future trade arrangements before Britain finally leaves the EU's orbit when a status quo transition period ends in December.

Johnson has refused.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="http://13.235.153.162/world/uk-sees-a-way-through-parliamentary-maze-for-brexit-treaty-breach-bill-327894" hreflang="en">UK sees 'a way through' parliamentary maze for Brexit treaty breach bill</a>

"With every day that passes, the chances of a timely agreement do start to fade," said Ursula von der Leyen, President of the European Commission, the EU executive.

In a speech to the European Parliament, she said the divorce agreement "cannot be unilaterally changed, disregarded or dis-applied".

"This is a matter of law, trust and good faith ... Trust is the foundation of any strong partnership," she said.

The EU fears a disorderly Brexit if the terms of the trade relationship are not agreed, and former British prime ministers have said breaking the law is a step too far that undermines the country's reputation.

Johnson has said the bill was essential to counter "absurd" threats from Brussels including that London be required to put up trade barriers between Britain and its province of Northern Ireland and that the EU would impose a food blockade. Such steps, he said, would threaten the unity of the United Kingdom.

Asked on Wednesday if the EU was negotiating in good faith, Johnson said: "I don't believe they are."

"Perhaps they will prove my suspicions wrong," Johnson said.

COMPROMISE WITH REBELS

Johnson's Internal Market Bill has been criticised by senior members of his governing Conservative Party and the previous five prime ministers have also expressed concern at the damage it might do to Britain's international standing.

However, he appeared to have averted a rebellion by Conservative lawmakers which might have derailed it altogether after agreeing to a compromise with them on Wednesday.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="http://13.235.153.162/world/uk-pm-boris-johnson-faces-rebellion-over-plan-to-break-brexit-treaty-327474" hreflang="en">UK PM Boris Johnson faces rebellion over plan to break Brexit treaty</a>

"It is agreed that the parliamentary procedure suggested by some colleagues provides a clearer, more explicit democratic mandate for the use of these powers, and also provides more legal certainty," the government and two of the rebel lawmakers said in a joint statement.

It will mean parliament will have to give its approval before ministers can use the powers which override the Brexit divorce deal.

Earlier, Britain's Northern Ireland minister Brandon Lewis told parliament he stood by remarks he made last week that the bill would "break international law in a very specific and limited way".

However in a sign of continuing unease with the plans, Scotland's top law adviser to the British government, Richard Keen, quit his role, saying he could not reconcile his legal obligations with the government's policy intentions.

His resignation comes after the head of the British government's legal department quit last week over the issue.

EU diplomatic sources told Reuters that if the bill was passed in its current form, Brussels felt it could not deal with London.

The head of the European Commission said on Wednesday the chances of reaching a trade deal with Britain were fading by the day as the British government pushes ahead with moves that would breach their divorce treaty.

The head of the European Commission said on Wednesday the chances of reaching a trade deal with Britain were fading by the day as the British government pushes ahead with moves that would breach their divorce treaty. The British government announced draft legislation last week which it acknowledges would violate its international legal obligations and undercut parts of the divorce deal it signed before Britain formally left the European Union in January. Brussels wants Prime Minister Boris Johnson to scrap what is known as the Internal Market Bill, saying it could sink talks on future trade arrangements before Britain finally leaves the EU's orbit when a status quo transition period ends in December. Johnson has refused. Also read: UK sees 'a way through' parliamentary maze for Brexit treaty breach bill "With every day that passes, the chances of a timely agreement do start to fade," said Ursula von der Leyen, President of the European Commission, the EU executive. In a speech to the European Parliament, she said the divorce agreement "cannot be unilaterally changed, disregarded or dis-applied". "This is a matter of law, trust and good faith ... Trust is the foundation of any strong partnership," she said. The EU fears a disorderly Brexit if the terms of the trade relationship are not agreed, and former British prime ministers have said breaking the law is a step too far that undermines the country's reputation. Johnson has said the bill was essential to counter "absurd" threats from Brussels including that London be required to put up trade barriers between Britain and its province of Northern Ireland and that the EU would impose a food blockade. Such steps, he said, would threaten the unity of the United Kingdom. Asked on Wednesday if the EU was negotiating in good faith, Johnson said: "I don't believe they are." "Perhaps they will prove my suspicions wrong," Johnson said. COMPROMISE WITH REBELS Johnson's Internal Market Bill has been criticised by senior members of his governing Conservative Party and the previous five prime ministers have also expressed concern at the damage it might do to Britain's international standing. However, he appeared to have averted a rebellion by Conservative lawmakers which might have derailed it altogether after agreeing to a compromise with them on Wednesday. Also read: UK PM Boris Johnson faces rebellion over plan to break Brexit treaty "It is agreed that the parliamentary procedure suggested by some colleagues provides a clearer, more explicit democratic mandate for the use of these powers, and also provides more legal certainty," the government and two of the rebel lawmakers said in a joint statement. It will mean parliament will have to give its approval before ministers can use the powers which override the Brexit divorce deal. Earlier, Britain's Northern Ireland minister Brandon Lewis told parliament he stood by remarks he made last week that the bill would "break international law in a very specific and limited way". However in a sign of continuing unease with the plans, Scotland's top law adviser to the British government, Richard Keen, quit his role, saying he could not reconcile his legal obligations with the government's policy intentions. His resignation comes after the head of the British government's legal department quit last week over the issue. EU diplomatic sources told Reuters that if the bill was passed in its current form, Brussels felt it could not deal with London.

Chances of Brexit deal fading every day, EU Commission chief says

European Union chief&nbsp;Ursula von der Leyen on Wednesday warned Turkey against trying to intimidate Greece and Cyprus, as tensions grow over energy reserves in the eastern Mediterranean.

In her annual State of the EU speech, Ursula von der Leyen said Ankara was a key partner doing important work hosting refugees but stressed "none of this is justification for attempts to intimidate its neighbours".

Also see:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/now-turkey-stages-military-exercises-in-eastern-mediterranean-amid-tensions-with-greece-323929">Now, Turkey stages military exercises in eastern Mediterranean amid tensions with Greece</a>

Cyprus President Nicos Anastasiades said the Mediterranean island&nbsp;is ready to engage in dialogue with Turkey to resolve differences but not under threats.

"Yesterday unfortunately a Turkish NAVTEX to expand illegal drilling by the Yavuz vessel was extended when at the same time a series of initiatives are ongoing that seek an end to Ankara's unlawful actions and de-escalation," he said, after a meeting with EU Council President Charles Michel in Nicosia.

Also see:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/turkey-versus-greece-a-long-history-of-disputes-323392">Turkey versus Greece: A long history of disputes</a>

Anastasiades said Turkey was continuing its provocations in the eastern Mediterranean.

On Tuesday, Turkey extended the operations of its Yavuz energy drill ship in disputed Mediterranean waters off Cyprus until Oct. 12, in a move that could stir tension between the island's Greek Cypriot government and Ankara.

Turkey, Greece and Cyprus have been locked in a row over energy resources and maritime borders in the region, with Ankara infuriating the EU countries by sending research ships with naval escorts to work in contested waters.

There have been fears of conflict erupting and Cyprus is pressing the rest of the EU to impose fresh sanctions on Ankara over the drilling.

"Turkey is and will always be an important neighbour, but while we are close together on the map, the distance between us appears to be growing," von der Leyen told the European Parliament.

"Yes, Turkey is in a troubled neighbourhood. And yes, it is hosting millions of refugees, for which we support them with considerable funding. But none of this is justification for attempts to intimidate its neighbours."

Greece and Cyprus can count on Europe's "full solidarity on protecting their legitimate sovereignty rights", she added.

European Union chief Ursula von der Leyen on Wednesday warned Turkey against trying to intimidate Greece and Cyprus, as tensions grow over energy reserves in the eastern Mediterranean.

European Union chief Ursula von der Leyen on Wednesday warned Turkey against trying to intimidate Greece and Cyprus, as tensions grow over energy reserves in the eastern Mediterranean. In her annual State of the EU speech, Ursula von der Leyen said Ankara was a key partner doing important work hosting refugees but stressed "none of this is justification for attempts to intimidate its neighbours". Also see: Now, Turkey stages military exercises in eastern Mediterranean amid tensions with Greece Cyprus President Nicos Anastasiades said the Mediterranean island is ready to engage in dialogue with Turkey to resolve differences but not under threats. "Yesterday unfortunately a Turkish NAVTEX to expand illegal drilling by the Yavuz vessel was extended when at the same time a series of initiatives are ongoing that seek an end to Ankara's unlawful actions and de-escalation," he said, after a meeting with EU Council President Charles Michel in Nicosia. Also see: Turkey versus Greece: A long history of disputes Anastasiades said Turkey was continuing its provocations in the eastern Mediterranean. On Tuesday, Turkey extended the operations of its Yavuz energy drill ship in disputed Mediterranean waters off Cyprus until Oct. 12, in a move that could stir tension between the island's Greek Cypriot government and Ankara. Turkey, Greece and Cyprus have been locked in a row over energy resources and maritime borders in the region, with Ankara infuriating the EU countries by sending research ships with naval escorts to work in contested waters. There have been fears of conflict erupting and Cyprus is pressing the rest of the EU to impose fresh sanctions on Ankara over the drilling. "Turkey is and will always be an important neighbour, but while we are close together on the map, the distance between us appears to be growing," von der Leyen told the European Parliament. "Yes, Turkey is in a troubled neighbourhood. And yes, it is hosting millions of refugees, for which we support them with considerable funding. But none of this is justification for attempts to intimidate its neighbours." Greece and Cyprus can count on Europe's "full solidarity on protecting their legitimate sovereignty rights", she added.

European Union chief warns Turkey against 'intimidating' neighbours

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