Britain's jobs boom has weakened in the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/european-unions-brexit-minister-says-united-kingdoms-proposals-fall-short-need-agreement-by-end-of-day-256061">approach to Brexit</a> with the number of people in work unexpectedly falling by the most in over four years and unemployment rising, official data showed on Tuesday.

Employment fell by 56,000 to 32.69 million in the three months to August, the Office for National Statistics said. Economists polled by Reuters had expected growth of 23,000.

The number of people out of work rose by 22,000 to just over 1.31 million, the ONS said.

Britain's strong labour market has been the silver lining for the economy since the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/brexit-deal-possible-this-week-says-european-union-chief-negotiator-michel-barnier-256023">Brexit referendum in 2016</a>, something many analysts attribute, in part, to firms hiring workers that they can later lay off rather than making longer-term commitments to investment.

But there were signs in Tuesday's figures that employers were turning more cautious.

The unemployment rate unexpectedly rose to 3.9 per cent&nbsp;from 3.8 per cent, which had been its joint-lowest since the mid-1970s, while vacancies fell to their lowest level since the three months to November 2017.

"Challenging economic conditions are starting to take the shine off the UK’s job boom," Tej Parikh, chief economist at the Institute of Directors, an employers group, said.

"Business leaders’ long-lasting drive to expand their workforce has put the labour market in a strong position. However, firms are now increasingly coming up against uncertainty and the shrinking supply of available talent."

Many employers are worried about Prime Minister Boris Johnson's pledge to take Britain out of the European Union on October 31 without a transition deal to smooth the economic shock if necessary. However, lawmakers have passed legislation that they say will force him to seek a delay from Brussels.

A survey published separately on Tuesday by Britain's main auto industry group showed jobs cuts at one in three firms in the sector, which risks being a big loser from Brexit. That was up from one in eight just under a year ago.

As well as worries about Brexit, Britain's economy is feeling the drag from rising US-China trade tensions which have weighed on global growth.

The ONS labour market data showed a dip in the pace of pay growth which recently hit its fastest in more than 10 years.

Total earnings growth, including bonuses, rose by an annual 3.8 per cent&nbsp;in the three months to August, slowing from 3.9 per cent&nbsp;in the three months to July and weaker than the median forecast of 4.0 per cent&nbsp;in the Reuters poll.

Excluding bonuses, which smoothes out some volatility, pay growth similarly slowed slightly to 3.8 per cent, but was a touch ahead of the Reuters poll forecast of 3.7 per cent.

The trend in pay growth is being watched closely by the Bank of England.

Deputy Governor Dave Ramsden said in a newspaper interview published on Sunday that wage costs were "picking up quite significantly, which will drive domestic inflationary pressure."

However, the BoE is waiting for more clarity on Brexit before any decision to resume its gradual and limited programme of interest rates hikes.

Britain's jobs boom has weakened in the approach to Brexit with the number of people in work unexpectedly falling by the most in over four years and unemployment rising, official data showed on Tuesday.

Britain's jobs boom has weakened in the approach to Brexit with the number of people in work unexpectedly falling by the most in over four years and unemployment rising, official data showed on Tuesday. Employment fell by 56,000 to 32.69 million in the three months to August, the Office for National Statistics said. Economists polled by Reuters had expected growth of 23,000. The number of people out of work rose by 22,000 to just over 1.31 million, the ONS said. Britain's strong labour market has been the silver lining for the economy since the Brexit referendum in 2016, something many analysts attribute, in part, to firms hiring workers that they can later lay off rather than making longer-term commitments to investment. But there were signs in Tuesday's figures that employers were turning more cautious. The unemployment rate unexpectedly rose to 3.9 per cent from 3.8 per cent, which had been its joint-lowest since the mid-1970s, while vacancies fell to their lowest level since the three months to November 2017. "Challenging economic conditions are starting to take the shine off the UK’s job boom," Tej Parikh, chief economist at the Institute of Directors, an employers group, said. "Business leaders’ long-lasting drive to expand their workforce has put the labour market in a strong position. However, firms are now increasingly coming up against uncertainty and the shrinking supply of available talent." Many employers are worried about Prime Minister Boris Johnson's pledge to take Britain out of the European Union on October 31 without a transition deal to smooth the economic shock if necessary. However, lawmakers have passed legislation that they say will force him to seek a delay from Brussels. A survey published separately on Tuesday by Britain's main auto industry group showed jobs cuts at one in three firms in the sector, which risks being a big loser from Brexit. That was up from one in eight just under a year ago. As well as worries about Brexit, Britain's economy is feeling the drag from rising US-China trade tensions which have weighed on global growth. The ONS labour market data showed a dip in the pace of pay growth which recently hit its fastest in more than 10 years. Total earnings growth, including bonuses, rose by an annual 3.8 per cent in the three months to August, slowing from 3.9 per cent in the three months to July and weaker than the median forecast of 4.0 per cent in the Reuters poll. Excluding bonuses, which smoothes out some volatility, pay growth similarly slowed slightly to 3.8 per cent, but was a touch ahead of the Reuters poll forecast of 3.7 per cent. The trend in pay growth is being watched closely by the Bank of England. Deputy Governor Dave Ramsden said in a newspaper interview published on Sunday that wage costs were "picking up quite significantly, which will drive domestic inflationary pressure." However, the BoE is waiting for more clarity on Brexit before any decision to resume its gradual and limited programme of interest rates hikes.

United Kingdom hiring falls by most in over four years as Brexit nears

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/brexit-deal-possible-this-week-says-european-union-chief-negotiator-michel-barnier-256023">Britain's latest proposals on the terms of its departure from the European Union are still not enough for an agreement</a> and a legal text is needed by the end of Tuesday for a deal to be agreed at a leaders' summit this week, three diplomatic sources said.

Relaying comments made by the EU's Brexit negotiator, Michel Barnier, at a meeting of the bloc's ministers in Luxembourg, they said that if the Tuesday deadline was missed then talks would have to continue after the Thursday-Friday summit.

"We need to land this tonight," an EU official told Reuters.

However, British Brexit Minister Stephen Barclay struck a more positive note as he arrived in Luxembourg for talks with ministers from the 27 countries that will remain in the EU.

"The talks are ongoing we need to give them space to proceed," he told reporters. "Detailed conversations are&nbsp;underway and a deal is still very possible."

The main sticking point to reaching a deal before the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/eu-warns-a-lot-of-work-to-be-done-before-brexit-deal-255708">October&nbsp;31 scheduled date for Britain's exit</a> is customs and security arrangements for the border between EU member Ireland and the British province of Northern Ireland - the only land frontier between the EU and the United Kingdom after Brexit.

Barnier said earlier that while an agreement was still possible this week, it was still possible and it was "high time to turn good intentions in a legal text".

Finland's EU affairs minister, Tytti Tuppurainen, said the EU must prepare for a no-deal and a third extension of the tortuous divorce process.

"All scenarios are open," she said, adding that leaders at the summit would discuss pushing back the departure date beyond October&nbsp;31.

British Prime Minister Boris Johnson, a leading figure in the 2016 referendum in which Britons opted to leave the EU, has pledged to take the United Kingdom out of the bloc on that day whether or not a withdrawal agreement has been reached.

But the British parliament has passed a law saying the country cannot leave without an agreement, and Johnson has not explained how he can get around that.

Malta's EU minister, asked if he would bet on there being a Brexit deal this month, said: "I would not."

Watch:&nbsp;Make-or-break week for Brexit deal

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/make-or-break-week-for-brexit-deal-256038/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Deal, No-Deal, Delay

As ministers met in Luxembourg, British Brexit negotiator David Frost was starting another round of negotiations with the EU's executive European Commission in Brussels. <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/brexit-on-october-31-a-priority-for-british-government-queen-255851">Britain was due to make new proposals</a> in an attempt to break the Brexit deadlock, RTE said.

There was no comment from Johnson's office and the British mission to the EU declined to comment.

A British government source said separately that new texts have been shared repeatedly with Brussels during talks.

The main obstacle is around customs, with London proposing that Northern Ireland stays in the UK customs area but that EU tariffs are applied on all goods crossing from mainland Britain to the island.

Businesses would be eligible for a refund if it turns out their goods stay in Northern Ireland under the plan, which the EU has many doubts about, saying the system is too complicated, untested and not detailed enough at this stage.

The EU believes the only possible deal to be had at the summit is a return to a solution - already rejected by Britain previously - of keeping Northern Ireland in the bloc's customs union.

It would require a major shift from London and Johnson will face his factious parliament at a rare Saturday session after the summit.

Deal or no deal, the EU believes another delay to Britain's October&nbsp;31 departure date will be needed. Extension options range from as short as an extra month to half a year or longer. The other EU states would need to agree unanimously to grant it.

"Time alone is not a solution. However, if a significant political change takes place in the UK then that could potentially justify a discussion on an extension if we were asked for it," France's Amelie de Montchalin said.

"A significant political change is the prospect of an election, a referendum, something that changes the political dynamic so that the triangle between the government, parliament and the British people could align with each other a bit more."

Should no final resolutions come at the summit later this week, the EU is mulling an extraordinary one in late October to approve any deal or a delay or give marching orders for a damaging no-deal split.

Britain's latest proposals on the terms of its departure from the European Union are still not enough for an agreement and a legal text is needed by the end of Tuesday for a deal to be agreed at a leaders' summit this week, three diplomatic sources said.

Britain's latest proposals on the terms of its departure from the European Union are still not enough for an agreement and a legal text is needed by the end of Tuesday for a deal to be agreed at a leaders' summit this week, three diplomatic sources said. Relaying comments made by the EU's Brexit negotiator, Michel Barnier, at a meeting of the bloc's ministers in Luxembourg, they said that if the Tuesday deadline was missed then talks would have to continue after the Thursday-Friday summit. "We need to land this tonight," an EU official told Reuters. However, British Brexit Minister Stephen Barclay struck a more positive note as he arrived in Luxembourg for talks with ministers from the 27 countries that will remain in the EU. "The talks are ongoing we need to give them space to proceed," he told reporters. "Detailed conversations are underway and a deal is still very possible." The main sticking point to reaching a deal before the October 31 scheduled date for Britain's exit is customs and security arrangements for the border between EU member Ireland and the British province of Northern Ireland - the only land frontier between the EU and the United Kingdom after Brexit. Barnier said earlier that while an agreement was still possible this week, it was still possible and it was "high time to turn good intentions in a legal text". Finland's EU affairs minister, Tytti Tuppurainen, said the EU must prepare for a no-deal and a third extension of the tortuous divorce process. "All scenarios are open," she said, adding that leaders at the summit would discuss pushing back the departure date beyond October 31. British Prime Minister Boris Johnson, a leading figure in the 2016 referendum in which Britons opted to leave the EU, has pledged to take the United Kingdom out of the bloc on that day whether or not a withdrawal agreement has been reached. But the British parliament has passed a law saying the country cannot leave without an agreement, and Johnson has not explained how he can get around that. Malta's EU minister, asked if he would bet on there being a Brexit deal this month, said: "I would not." Watch: Make-or-break week for Brexit deal Deal, No-Deal, Delay As ministers met in Luxembourg, British Brexit negotiator David Frost was starting another round of negotiations with the EU's executive European Commission in Brussels. Britain was due to make new proposals in an attempt to break the Brexit deadlock, RTE said. There was no comment from Johnson's office and the British mission to the EU declined to comment. A British government source said separately that new texts have been shared repeatedly with Brussels during talks. The main obstacle is around customs, with London proposing that Northern Ireland stays in the UK customs area but that EU tariffs are applied on all goods crossing from mainland Britain to the island. Businesses would be eligible for a refund if it turns out their goods stay in Northern Ireland under the plan, which the EU has many doubts about, saying the system is too complicated, untested and not detailed enough at this stage. The EU believes the only possible deal to be had at the summit is a return to a solution - already rejected by Britain previously - of keeping Northern Ireland in the bloc's customs union. It would require a major shift from London and Johnson will face his factious parliament at a rare Saturday session after the summit. Deal or no deal, the EU believes another delay to Britain's October 31 departure date will be needed. Extension options range from as short as an extra month to half a year or longer. The other EU states would need to agree unanimously to grant it. "Time alone is not a solution. However, if a significant political change takes place in the UK then that could potentially justify a discussion on an extension if we were asked for it," France's Amelie de Montchalin said. "A significant political change is the prospect of an election, a referendum, something that changes the political dynamic so that the triangle between the government, parliament and the British people could align with each other a bit more." Should no final resolutions come at the summit later this week, the EU is mulling an extraordinary one in late October to approve any deal or a delay or give marching orders for a damaging no-deal split.

European Union's Brexit minister says United Kingdom's proposals fall short, need agreement by end of day

From the pinnacle of the City of London's largest skyscraper, Stuart Lipton is wagering a $1.2 billion bet that the British capital remains a master of the international financial universe no matter what happens with <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/brexit-on-october-31-a-priority-for-british-government-queen-255851">Brexit</a>.

The 76-year-old property developer is not alone. Bankrolled by a host of global investors, including France's Axa, his big-ticket gamble in London's financial district is - so far - on the money.

The cataclysmic warnings during the 2016 referendum that London would lose its financial throne if it voted to leave the European Union (EU) have, so far, been proven wrong. London is still the world's banker, only bigger by some measures.

"London is extraordinarily resilient and its future as a finance centre is secure because what we have here is unique," Lipton told Reuters on the 61st floor of 22 Bishopsgate, set to become western Europe's second tallest skyscraper when it opens next year.

In the year to June, London has attracted more cross border commercial real estate investment than any other city. It has overtaken New York as a destination for fintech investment and it has increased its dominance of the world's $6.6 trillion daily foreign exchange market.

Since the vote to leave the EU, Britain has leapfrogged the United States to become the largest centre for trading interest rate swaps, despite calls by ex-French President Francois Hollande to end London's dominance in clearing euro-denominated derivatives.

That London has expanded its influence as an international finance centre is one of the biggest riddles of the United Kingdom's tortuous three-year <a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/uk-economy-starts-to-shows-cracks-under-brexit-and-global-strains-254409">Brexit crisis.</a>

The city's standing ensures the United Kingdom keeps one of its last big chips at the top table of world politics just as it splits from the EU.

It also means EU companies will still come to London to raise finance outside the bloc after Brexit, a fact not lost on Wall Street heavyweights such as Goldman Sachs and JP Morgan.

Just a mile away from 22 Bishopsgate, Goldman opened its new 1 million square foot European headquarters - complete with mothers' rooms and wildflowers on the roof - in July, three years on from the 2016 referendum.

Largely abandoned by the British government during Brexit talks, ten senior industry officials told Reuters London's financial services sector has grown since 2016 because there is no realistic competitor in its time zone.

And high-rolling bankers are too attached to its Anglo-Saxon, work-hard, play-hard culture.

The chief executive of the British division of one of Europe's largest banks said although some business will move to the EU, most senior bankers will be reluctant to leave London. He would consider taking a 20 per cent&nbsp;pay cut to remain in the city.

"If you are an Italian banker, who moved out to London 20 years ago, and your kids go to private school around the corner then you are not going to move to Frankfurt," he said.

A global hub for trading, lending and investing, London is the largest net exporter of financial services in the world, with the EU accounting for a quarter of the business.

The 2016 referendum shocked many of the masters of London's financial universe, triggering the biggest one-day fall of the pound since the era of free-floating exchange rates was introduced in the early 1970s.

But so far, most major financial institutions have opted against moving large numbers of people and activities until the loss of access to the EU's lucrative single market is confirmed.

Banks, insurers and asset managers have shifted over a trillion euros of assets such as derivatives and bonds from London to the continent and opened new EU hubs as a hedge against London suddenly being cut off from the bloc if Britain exits the EU without a formal agreement.

The Bank of England estimates around 4,000 people may have moved by the time Britain has exited the EU. But the key decisions are still taken in London.

Reuters contacted JP Morgan and Goldman, and rivals Citi, Bank of America, UBS, Morgan Stanley, Credit Suisse&nbsp;and Deutsche Bank, to seek details on how a 'no-deal Brexit' might accelerate the transfer of resources and activities from London.

All banks said they were prepared for a no-deal Brexit, and had been since the first quarter.

Earlier this year, Morgan Stanley's chief executive, James Gorman, said that he scarcely worried about Brexit. "That's not in my top 200 issues," he said.

British data shows the total number of people employed in the City between 2016 and 2018 overall rose by 31,000, though the total number of people employed specifically in banking and insurance is down 3,000 over the period.

It is not clear how much of that drop is due to Brexit and how much is due to new regulations or structural changes, such as higher numbers of tech specialists at lenders while traditional banking jobs shrink.

Initial estimates of potential job losses ranged from about 30,000 roles within a year of Britain leaving the EU, estimated by the Brussels-based Bruegel research group, to up to 75,000 by 2025 by Oliver Wyman.

Oliver Wyman said they stand by their predictions because it is important to distinguish between job losses on the first day of Brexit and over the longer term. The final number will depend upon the level of market access, which is not clear yet.

Bruegel did not respond to a request for comment.

Financial capitals such as London have remarkable longevity and their rise and fall typically happens at a glacial pace, said Youssef Cassis, a professor of economic history who specialises in financial centres.

"There is no precedent for decoupling between a major economic power- in this case, the European Union- and its financial centre, London," he said.

Some key activities have moved out of London ahead of Brexit. Eurozone government bond and repurchase agreements trading worth around 230 billion euros a day, along with clearing, switched to Amsterdam, Milan and Paris earlier this year.

London-based CBOE Europe, the EU's largest share trading venue, began trading euro shares at its new Amsterdam hub at the start of October.

Nicolas Mackel, who heads a body promoting Luxembourg's financial centre, said it would be a shift in activities and not jobs that will affect London most.

"It's not between now and Christmas you have to look, but on a five, 10, 15 and 20-year framework. It's a false comfort that you are providing by only focusing on jobs," Mackel said.

After Brexit, the $15.9 trillion EU 27 economy will still be reliant on a financial capital outside its borders, which could be politically hard for Brussels to stomach indefinitely.

One European Commission official, speaking on condition of anonymity, told Reuters that the EU had no intention of smothering Britain's financial sector to accelerate its own plans for an EU capital markets union.

But there is scepticism in the market about the longevity of such pledges.

"Why should one expect the EU to give an economic answer to what is a political challenge?" said Xavier Rolet, former head of London Stock Exchange and CEO of investment manager CQS.

"I would expect them to respond politically, even if those answers are not necessarily in the best economic interests of EU-based investors, corporates and banks."

Rolet, who said in the aftermath of the referendum that half of all finance jobs in London may disappear if derivatives clearing left the capital, said it was too early to assess the implications of Brexit.

"I do stand by my statement," he said of the potential job losses.

From the pinnacle of the City of London's largest skyscraper, Stuart Lipton is wagering a $1.2 billion bet that the British capital remains a master of the international financial universe no matter what happens with Brexit.

From the pinnacle of the City of London's largest skyscraper, Stuart Lipton is wagering a $1.2 billion bet that the British capital remains a master of the international financial universe no matter what happens with Brexit. The 76-year-old property developer is not alone. Bankrolled by a host of global investors, including France's Axa, his big-ticket gamble in London's financial district is - so far - on the money. The cataclysmic warnings during the 2016 referendum that London would lose its financial throne if it voted to leave the European Union (EU) have, so far, been proven wrong. London is still the world's banker, only bigger by some measures. "London is extraordinarily resilient and its future as a finance centre is secure because what we have here is unique," Lipton told Reuters on the 61st floor of 22 Bishopsgate, set to become western Europe's second tallest skyscraper when it opens next year. In the year to June, London has attracted more cross border commercial real estate investment than any other city. It has overtaken New York as a destination for fintech investment and it has increased its dominance of the world's $6.6 trillion daily foreign exchange market. Since the vote to leave the EU, Britain has leapfrogged the United States to become the largest centre for trading interest rate swaps, despite calls by ex-French President Francois Hollande to end London's dominance in clearing euro-denominated derivatives. That London has expanded its influence as an international finance centre is one of the biggest riddles of the United Kingdom's tortuous three-year Brexit crisis. The city's standing ensures the United Kingdom keeps one of its last big chips at the top table of world politics just as it splits from the EU. It also means EU companies will still come to London to raise finance outside the bloc after Brexit, a fact not lost on Wall Street heavyweights such as Goldman Sachs and JP Morgan. Just a mile away from 22 Bishopsgate, Goldman opened its new 1 million square foot European headquarters - complete with mothers' rooms and wildflowers on the roof - in July, three years on from the 2016 referendum. Largely abandoned by the British government during Brexit talks, ten senior industry officials told Reuters London's financial services sector has grown since 2016 because there is no realistic competitor in its time zone. And high-rolling bankers are too attached to its Anglo-Saxon, work-hard, play-hard culture. The chief executive of the British division of one of Europe's largest banks said although some business will move to the EU, most senior bankers will be reluctant to leave London. He would consider taking a 20 per cent pay cut to remain in the city. "If you are an Italian banker, who moved out to London 20 years ago, and your kids go to private school around the corner then you are not going to move to Frankfurt," he said. A global hub for trading, lending and investing, London is the largest net exporter of financial services in the world, with the EU accounting for a quarter of the business. The 2016 referendum shocked many of the masters of London's financial universe, triggering the biggest one-day fall of the pound since the era of free-floating exchange rates was introduced in the early 1970s. But so far, most major financial institutions have opted against moving large numbers of people and activities until the loss of access to the EU's lucrative single market is confirmed. Banks, insurers and asset managers have shifted over a trillion euros of assets such as derivatives and bonds from London to the continent and opened new EU hubs as a hedge against London suddenly being cut off from the bloc if Britain exits the EU without a formal agreement. The Bank of England estimates around 4,000 people may have moved by the time Britain has exited the EU. But the key decisions are still taken in London. Reuters contacted JP Morgan and Goldman, and rivals Citi, Bank of America, UBS, Morgan Stanley, Credit Suisse and Deutsche Bank, to seek details on how a 'no-deal Brexit' might accelerate the transfer of resources and activities from London. All banks said they were prepared for a no-deal Brexit, and had been since the first quarter. Earlier this year, Morgan Stanley's chief executive, James Gorman, said that he scarcely worried about Brexit. "That's not in my top 200 issues," he said. British data shows the total number of people employed in the City between 2016 and 2018 overall rose by 31,000, though the total number of people employed specifically in banking and insurance is down 3,000 over the period. It is not clear how much of that drop is due to Brexit and how much is due to new regulations or structural changes, such as higher numbers of tech specialists at lenders while traditional banking jobs shrink. Initial estimates of potential job losses ranged from about 30,000 roles within a year of Britain leaving the EU, estimated by the Brussels-based Bruegel research group, to up to 75,000 by 2025 by Oliver Wyman. Oliver Wyman said they stand by their predictions because it is important to distinguish between job losses on the first day of Brexit and over the longer term. The final number will depend upon the level of market access, which is not clear yet. Bruegel did not respond to a request for comment. Financial capitals such as London have remarkable longevity and their rise and fall typically happens at a glacial pace, said Youssef Cassis, a professor of economic history who specialises in financial centres. "There is no precedent for decoupling between a major economic power- in this case, the European Union- and its financial centre, London," he said. Some key activities have moved out of London ahead of Brexit. Eurozone government bond and repurchase agreements trading worth around 230 billion euros a day, along with clearing, switched to Amsterdam, Milan and Paris earlier this year. London-based CBOE Europe, the EU's largest share trading venue, began trading euro shares at its new Amsterdam hub at the start of October. Nicolas Mackel, who heads a body promoting Luxembourg's financial centre, said it would be a shift in activities and not jobs that will affect London most. "It's not between now and Christmas you have to look, but on a five, 10, 15 and 20-year framework. It's a false comfort that you are providing by only focusing on jobs," Mackel said. After Brexit, the $15.9 trillion EU 27 economy will still be reliant on a financial capital outside its borders, which could be politically hard for Brussels to stomach indefinitely. One European Commission official, speaking on condition of anonymity, told Reuters that the EU had no intention of smothering Britain's financial sector to accelerate its own plans for an EU capital markets union. But there is scepticism in the market about the longevity of such pledges. "Why should one expect the EU to give an economic answer to what is a political challenge?" said Xavier Rolet, former head of London Stock Exchange and CEO of investment manager CQS. "I would expect them to respond politically, even if those answers are not necessarily in the best economic interests of EU-based investors, corporates and banks." Rolet, who said in the aftermath of the referendum that half of all finance jobs in London may disappear if derivatives clearing left the capital, said it was too early to assess the implications of Brexit. "I do stand by my statement," he said of the potential job losses.

London retains global finance throne amid Brexit chaos

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

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

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

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

Poland's nationalist Law and Justice (PiS) was on course to keep its ruling majority after a general election on Sunday, an exit poll showed, a victory likely to stoke concern about democratic standards in the largest former Soviet European Union state.

A second term for PiS will also bolster anti-immigration populists in the European Union are who keen to scale back the bloc's liberal agenda and who cheer Poland's chafing against Brussels over the rule of law.

The poll by Ipsos gave PiS 43.6% of the vote, with 27.4% of the ballots going to the centrist Civic Coalition, an umbrella group that includes the Civic Platform formerly led by European Union Council President Donald Tusk. A leftist bloc garnered 11.9% of votes in the poll.

"We have victory," PiS leader Jaroslaw Kaczynski, 70, told party members at the party's headquarters in central Warsaw, but he added the party had "deserved to win more".

Election officials are expected to start announcing partial results on Monday.

Opposition groups and Poland's EU partners have said that during its four years in power PiS has undermined the independence of the judiciary, forced public media to promote its agenda and taken other steps to quell dissent.

It has shifted Poland's foreign policy away from the European mainstream, becoming a leading proponent of calls to take some powers away from Brussels.

Throughout the campaign, PiS told voters that business and cultural elites in Poland should be replaced with people who espouse patriotic values, to ensure fair market competition and access to state institutions such as courts.

It has given few details about future policy plans, but Justice Minister Zbigniew Ziobro told reporters after voting ended on Sunday that PiS "had a real plan ... for courts to stop being the ball and chain of the Polish economy."

The party has cast the election as a choice between a society rooted in traditional Catholic values and a liberal order that promotes a chosen few and undermines family life.

Critics accused it of fomenting homophobia during the election campaign, with PiS officials calling lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) rights an invasive foreign influence that threatens Poland's national identity.

Under Poland's complex election rules, the PiS result from Sunday's exit poll would translate into 239 seats in the 460-member lower house of parliament, calculations by private broadcaster TVN showed. PiS has 240 seats in the outgoing legislature.

Divided society

PiS has drawn support from poorer Poles who feel they have missed out on prosperity since the collapse of communism in 1989. The party has mixed nationalist rhetoric with a vast welfare programme financed by an economic boom.

To build up support, it has depended on close links with Poland's dominant Catholic Church, with senior officials frequently attending religious ceremonies and events, and the party has espoused stronger religious values in public life.

"I see that they are building something, that they are doing something, that they have bought something back, it was all devastated, everything was sold, Poland had nothing, and I support PiS for that," said Teresa Sass, an 85-year-old pensioner in the northern city of Gdansk.

According to Ipsos, voter turnout surged to 61.1%, which, if confirmed, would be the highest in a parliamentary vote since a 1989 partially free election that ushered in the end of communist rule in Poland.

The rise follows mounting political polarisation in Poland, with many PiS opponents anxious about the future of democracy in the country once seen as an exemplar of democratic transition.

"When I talk with my mother, I practice the art of avoidance, I don't get into any ideological discussions with her," said Krzysztof Michalec, 56, as he waited in the sunshine to see Kaczynski cast his vote in Warsaw.

A former opposition activist during communism, Michalec voted for the Civic Platform.

The election will see the return of left-wing parties into parliament after they lost their seats four years ago because of fragmentation.

The Spring party of Robert Biedron, 43, Poland's first openly gay lawmaker, and Together of Adrian Zandberg campaigned as part of a bloc on a promise to end coal mining and sever the links between church and state.

"We did it, we enter parliament as a third-largest political force," Zandberg, 39, was quoted as saying by the state PAP news agency.

Poland's nationalist Law and Justice (PiS) was on course to keep its ruling majority after a general election on Sunday, an exit poll showed, a victory likely to stoke concern about democratic standards in the largest former Soviet European Union state.

Poland's nationalist Law and Justice (PiS) was on course to keep its ruling majority after a general election on Sunday, an exit poll showed, a victory likely to stoke concern about democratic standards in the largest former Soviet European Union state. A second term for PiS will also bolster anti-immigration populists in the European Union are who keen to scale back the bloc's liberal agenda and who cheer Poland's chafing against Brussels over the rule of law. The poll by Ipsos gave PiS 43.6% of the vote, with 27.4% of the ballots going to the centrist Civic Coalition, an umbrella group that includes the Civic Platform formerly led by European Union Council President Donald Tusk. A leftist bloc garnered 11.9% of votes in the poll. "We have victory," PiS leader Jaroslaw Kaczynski, 70, told party members at the party's headquarters in central Warsaw, but he added the party had "deserved to win more". Election officials are expected to start announcing partial results on Monday. Opposition groups and Poland's EU partners have said that during its four years in power PiS has undermined the independence of the judiciary, forced public media to promote its agenda and taken other steps to quell dissent. It has shifted Poland's foreign policy away from the European mainstream, becoming a leading proponent of calls to take some powers away from Brussels. Throughout the campaign, PiS told voters that business and cultural elites in Poland should be replaced with people who espouse patriotic values, to ensure fair market competition and access to state institutions such as courts. It has given few details about future policy plans, but Justice Minister Zbigniew Ziobro told reporters after voting ended on Sunday that PiS "had a real plan ... for courts to stop being the ball and chain of the Polish economy." The party has cast the election as a choice between a society rooted in traditional Catholic values and a liberal order that promotes a chosen few and undermines family life. Critics accused it of fomenting homophobia during the election campaign, with PiS officials calling lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) rights an invasive foreign influence that threatens Poland's national identity. Under Poland's complex election rules, the PiS result from Sunday's exit poll would translate into 239 seats in the 460-member lower house of parliament, calculations by private broadcaster TVN showed. PiS has 240 seats in the outgoing legislature. Divided society PiS has drawn support from poorer Poles who feel they have missed out on prosperity since the collapse of communism in 1989. The party has mixed nationalist rhetoric with a vast welfare programme financed by an economic boom. To build up support, it has depended on close links with Poland's dominant Catholic Church, with senior officials frequently attending religious ceremonies and events, and the party has espoused stronger religious values in public life. "I see that they are building something, that they are doing something, that they have bought something back, it was all devastated, everything was sold, Poland had nothing, and I support PiS for that," said Teresa Sass, an 85-year-old pensioner in the northern city of Gdansk. According to Ipsos, voter turnout surged to 61.1%, which, if confirmed, would be the highest in a parliamentary vote since a 1989 partially free election that ushered in the end of communist rule in Poland. The rise follows mounting political polarisation in Poland, with many PiS opponents anxious about the future of democracy in the country once seen as an exemplar of democratic transition. "When I talk with my mother, I practice the art of avoidance, I don't get into any ideological discussions with her," said Krzysztof Michalec, 56, as he waited in the sunshine to see Kaczynski cast his vote in Warsaw. A former opposition activist during communism, Michalec voted for the Civic Platform. The election will see the return of left-wing parties into parliament after they lost their seats four years ago because of fragmentation. The Spring party of Robert Biedron, 43, Poland's first openly gay lawmaker, and Together of Adrian Zandberg campaigned as part of a bloc on a promise to end coal mining and sever the links between church and state. "We did it, we enter parliament as a third-largest political force," Zandberg, 39, was quoted as saying by the state PAP news agency.

Poland's nationalists on course to stay in power for second term

Poles began voting on Sunday in a polarising election which the governing populists look set to win on the back of welfare measures and attacks on LGBT rights, but their majority is at risk, giving opposition parties a narrow chance to snatch power.

The opposition received an unexpected last-minute boon when author Olga Tokarczuk, a known government critic who won the Nobel Prize for Literature on Thursday, urged Poles to choose wisely "between democracy and authoritarianism" in the ballot, calling it the "most important" since Poland shed communism in 1989.

In-office since 2015 and led by ex-premier Jaroslaw Kaczynski, the right-wing Law and Justice (PiS) party has sought to mobilise poorer rural voters by coupling family values with a popular new child allowance, tax breaks for low-income earners and hikes to pensions and the minimum wage.

Widely regarded as Poland's powerbroker, Kaczynski has also stoked deep social division by attacking sexual minorities and rejecting Western liberal values, all with the tacit blessing of Poland's influential Catholic Church which holds sway over rural voters.

Kaczynski is also among several leaders in the European Union favouring greater national sovereignty over the federalism championed by powerhouses France and Germany.

Turnout is key

Supported by outgoing EU Council President Donald Tusk -- Kaczynski's arch-rival -- the opposition Citizen's Coalition (KO) draws on urban voters upset by the PiS's divisive politics, judicial reforms threatening the rule of law, graft scandals and monopolisation of public media.

Condemning the anti-LGBT drive and close church ties, but sharing the PIS's welfare goals, the left is set to enter parliament after a four-year hiatus.

Surveys show two smaller groups could win seats, including the far-right.

Two separate opinion polls published Friday suggested the PiS's majority is at risk as it scored 40 to 41.7 per cent support compared to a combined 41.4 and 45 per cent for opposition parties.

"Turnout will decide whether the PiS governs alone, whether it must build a coalition, or even if it might lose its majority," Anna Materska-Sosnowska, a Warsaw University political scientist, told AFP. Turnout in the 2015 election was 50.92 per cent.

Teflon party

Kaczynski has capitalised on a populist backlash against liberal urban elites, similar to trends in Western Europe and the US.

His party's bid to build a welfare state is addressed to Poles who reaped little benefit from the explosive growth and unfettered free-market drive after communism fell.

Analysts suggest that generous social outlays have also made the PiS a "teflon party", cushioning its reputation amid a string of high-profile graft scandals involving senior members.

"They've (PiS) removed everyone who got mixed up in scandals... so they're credible," Janina, a 74-year-old Warsaw pensioner who declined to provide her surname, told AFP.

"My grandchildren get the 500+ (116 euro, $130 monthly) payment, I'm getting a higher pension," she said, confirming the PiS has her vote.

Others insist the social measures come at too high a price.

"The PiS gets votes by scaring people and then offering protection; in the 2015 election, migrants were the enemy, now it's gay people, it's unacceptable," said Monika, a 38-year-old Warsaw mother of two working in the automotive sector.&nbsp;

'Protect Poland'

The KO chose Malgorzata Kidawa-Blonska, the even-tempered 62-year-old deputy parliamentary speaker, as its candidate for premier in a bid to counter the PiS.

"Chairman Kaczynski divides people... let's protect Poland against such division, against such hatred," she told supporters this week.

The KO has vowed to reverse PiS court reforms, which the EU says threaten judicial independence and the rule of law, but has otherwise offered voters little.

Experts warn that a strong PiS win will allow it to push through more judicial reforms likely to stoke conflict with the EU over the rule of law.

Most migrants

Critics attribute strong economic growth under the PiS to favourable external factors.

Joblessness in the country of 38 million people is at a record low of some five per cent in a tight labour market.

Although the PiS rejected EU migrant quotas, Poland became the world's top temporary labour destination in 2017, according to the OECD.

Around 1.2 million temporary workers, mostly Ukrainians, plugged a gap left by Poles seeking more lucrative jobs in the West after joining the EU in 2004.

Voting runs from 0500 to 1900 GMT on Sunday, with exit polls expected after balloting ends. Preliminary results are due on Monday.

Poles began voting on Sunday in a polarising election which the governing populists look set to win on the back of welfare measures and attacks on LGBT rights, but their majority is at risk, giving opposition parties a narrow chance to snatch power.

Poles began voting on Sunday in a polarising election which the governing populists look set to win on the back of welfare measures and attacks on LGBT rights, but their majority is at risk, giving opposition parties a narrow chance to snatch power. The opposition received an unexpected last-minute boon when author Olga Tokarczuk, a known government critic who won the Nobel Prize for Literature on Thursday, urged Poles to choose wisely "between democracy and authoritarianism" in the ballot, calling it the "most important" since Poland shed communism in 1989. In-office since 2015 and led by ex-premier Jaroslaw Kaczynski, the right-wing Law and Justice (PiS) party has sought to mobilise poorer rural voters by coupling family values with a popular new child allowance, tax breaks for low-income earners and hikes to pensions and the minimum wage. Widely regarded as Poland's powerbroker, Kaczynski has also stoked deep social division by attacking sexual minorities and rejecting Western liberal values, all with the tacit blessing of Poland's influential Catholic Church which holds sway over rural voters. Kaczynski is also among several leaders in the European Union favouring greater national sovereignty over the federalism championed by powerhouses France and Germany. Turnout is key Supported by outgoing EU Council President Donald Tusk -- Kaczynski's arch-rival -- the opposition Citizen's Coalition (KO) draws on urban voters upset by the PiS's divisive politics, judicial reforms threatening the rule of law, graft scandals and monopolisation of public media. Condemning the anti-LGBT drive and close church ties, but sharing the PIS's welfare goals, the left is set to enter parliament after a four-year hiatus. Surveys show two smaller groups could win seats, including the far-right. Two separate opinion polls published Friday suggested the PiS's majority is at risk as it scored 40 to 41.7 per cent support compared to a combined 41.4 and 45 per cent for opposition parties. "Turnout will decide whether the PiS governs alone, whether it must build a coalition, or even if it might lose its majority," Anna Materska-Sosnowska, a Warsaw University political scientist, told AFP. Turnout in the 2015 election was 50.92 per cent. Teflon party Kaczynski has capitalised on a populist backlash against liberal urban elites, similar to trends in Western Europe and the US. His party's bid to build a welfare state is addressed to Poles who reaped little benefit from the explosive growth and unfettered free-market drive after communism fell. Analysts suggest that generous social outlays have also made the PiS a "teflon party", cushioning its reputation amid a string of high-profile graft scandals involving senior members. "They've (PiS) removed everyone who got mixed up in scandals... so they're credible," Janina, a 74-year-old Warsaw pensioner who declined to provide her surname, told AFP. "My grandchildren get the 500+ (116 euro, $130 monthly) payment, I'm getting a higher pension," she said, confirming the PiS has her vote. Others insist the social measures come at too high a price. "The PiS gets votes by scaring people and then offering protection; in the 2015 election, migrants were the enemy, now it's gay people, it's unacceptable," said Monika, a 38-year-old Warsaw mother of two working in the automotive sector. 'Protect Poland' The KO chose Malgorzata Kidawa-Blonska, the even-tempered 62-year-old deputy parliamentary speaker, as its candidate for premier in a bid to counter the PiS. "Chairman Kaczynski divides people... let's protect Poland against such division, against such hatred," she told supporters this week. The KO has vowed to reverse PiS court reforms, which the EU says threaten judicial independence and the rule of law, but has otherwise offered voters little. Experts warn that a strong PiS win will allow it to push through more judicial reforms likely to stoke conflict with the EU over the rule of law. Most migrants Critics attribute strong economic growth under the PiS to favourable external factors. Joblessness in the country of 38 million people is at a record low of some five per cent in a tight labour market. Although the PiS rejected EU migrant quotas, Poland became the world's top temporary labour destination in 2017, according to the OECD. Around 1.2 million temporary workers, mostly Ukrainians, plugged a gap left by Poles seeking more lucrative jobs in the West after joining the EU in 2004. Voting runs from 0500 to 1900 GMT on Sunday, with exit polls expected after balloting ends. Preliminary results are due on Monday.

Populists eye victory in deeply divided Poland as voting begins

The European Union's chief Brexit negotiator warned diplomats Sunday that "a lot of work remains to be done" in withdrawal talks between London and Brussels. The European Commission issued a statement shortly after Barnier briefed EU ambassadors on the negotiations, just four days before a key European summit.

The European Union's chief Brexit negotiator warned diplomats Sunday that "a lot of work remains to be done" in withdrawal talks between London and Brussels. The European Commission issued a statement shortly after Barnier briefed EU ambassadors on the negotiations, just four days before a key European summit. "Michel Barnier briefed EU27 ambassadors this afternoon, following constructive technical-level talks with the United Kingdom over the weekend," it said. "He will also inform the European Parliament's Brexit Steering Group this evening. A lot of work remains to be done," it warned. A European diplomat familiar with Sunday's briefing confirmed that there had not been any sign of a quick resolution to the crisis, and suggested Britain's position had not moved far enough. "No breakthrough yet. Intensive discussions continue. Overall not an easy starting position -- also because only a few days remain until the European Council," the source said. "If the British government wants a solution, it must move quickly now. The clock is ticking." Technical talks with British officials will continue on Monday, and on Tuesday Barnier will head to Luxembourg to brief EU ministers preparing the summit. The European Council summit on Thursday and Friday has been billed as a key date in efforts to negotiate Britain's orderly withdrawal from the EU on October 31. If Prime Minister Boris Johnson is not able to come to an agreement with the other 27 EU leaders this month, Britain may crash out without a follow-on treaty.

European Union warns a lot of work to be done before Brexit deal

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/eu-and-uk-bid-to-save-brexit-talks-before-key-summit-255299">British Prime Minister Boris Johnson played down hopes of a breakthrough in his last-ditch bid to strike an amicable divorce deal with the European Union</a>.

Negotiators went behind closed doors for intensive talks in Brussels after Johnson outlined a new set of proposals to Irish Prime Minister Leo Varadkar on Thursday.

They have very little time left to succeed.

EU leaders will meet on Thursday and Friday for a summit held under the pressures of the October 31 Brexit deadline just two weeks away.

The 27 would ideally like to have a full proposal to vote on by then.

But the sides are trying to achieve in a few days what they had failed to in the more than three years since Britons first voted to leave the European Union after nearly 50 years.

German Chancellor Angela Merkel will discuss the available options with French President Emmanuel Macron late Sunday.

European officials said the bloc's Brexit negotiator Michel Barnier will also brief EU ambassadors on the state of play on Sunday evening.

Downing Street said Johnson told his cabinet to brace for a cliff-hanger finish in the coming days.

Johnson reiterated "that a pathway to a deal could be seen but that there is still a significant amount of work to get there and we must remain prepared to leave on October 31," a Downing Street spokesman said.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/make-significant-concessions-if-you-want-brexit-deal-eu-to-british-pm-johnson-254948">Outgoing EU chief Jean-Claude Juncker said British politics were getting more difficult to decipher</a> than the riddle of an "Egyptian sphinx".

"If the British ask for more time, which they would probably will not, it would in my view be historic&nbsp;nonsense to refuse them," Juncker told Austria's Kurier newspaper.

Johnson rose to power in July on a promise not to extend Brexit for the third time -&nbsp;even for a few weeks.

Breaking that pledge could come back to haunt him in an early general election that most predict for the coming months.

Johnson is under parliamentary orders to seek an extension until January 31 of next year if no deal emerges by Saturday.

He has promised to both follow the law and get Britain out by October 31 -&nbsp;a contradiction that might end up being settled in court.

Watch: Typhoon Hagibis: 19 killed, at least 70 injured

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/typhoon-hagibis-19-killed-at-least-70-injured-255666/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Parliamentary pressure

Ireland's Varadkar hinted on Thursday that he could support the talks running on up to the October 31 deadline if a deal seemed within reach.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/eu-ready-to-make-major-concession-on-brexit-deal-the-times-newspaper-254717">The few details that have leaked out suggest a compromise around the contentious Irish border issue</a>&nbsp;with Britain's Northern Ireland partially aligned with EU customs rules.

Whether such a fudge suits both Brussels and the more ardent Brexit backers in parliament who must still approve a deal should become clearer by the end of the week.

Britain will only avoid a chaotic breakup with its closest trading partners if the agreement is also passed by the UK parliament -&nbsp;something it has failed to do three times.

Johnson heads a minority government and must rely on the full backing of not only his own fractured Conservatives but also Northern Ireland's small Democratic Unionist Party.

DUP's parliamentary leader&nbsp;Nigel Dodds warned Johnson that "Northern Ireland must remain entirely in the customs union of the United Kingdom" and not the EU.

"And Boris Johnson knows it very well," Dodds told Italy's La Repubblica newspaper.

The comments do not necessarily rule out DUP support.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uk-brexit-minister-to-meet-eu-negotiator-thursday-london-254756">UK media are presenting Johnson's mooted compromise as a "double customs"</a> plan that could be interpreted to mean that Northern Ireland is leaving EU rules.

Yet details are still under discussion and the prime minister's allies are urging lawmakers to give the British leader a chance.

Main opposition Labour Party leader Jeremy Corbyn signalled Sunday that he would wait for the outcome of the EU summit before trying to force an early election.

But he added that there there was "a strong possibility" that those polls would come before the Christmas break.

British Prime Minister Boris Johnson played down hopes of a breakthrough in his last-ditch bid to strike an amicable divorce deal with the European Union. Negotiators went behind closed doors for intensive talks in Brussels after Johnson outlined a new set of proposals to Irish Prime Minister Leo Varadkar on Thursday.

British Prime Minister Boris Johnson played down hopes of a breakthrough in his last-ditch bid to strike an amicable divorce deal with the European Union. Negotiators went behind closed doors for intensive talks in Brussels after Johnson outlined a new set of proposals to Irish Prime Minister Leo Varadkar on Thursday. They have very little time left to succeed. EU leaders will meet on Thursday and Friday for a summit held under the pressures of the October 31 Brexit deadline just two weeks away. The 27 would ideally like to have a full proposal to vote on by then. But the sides are trying to achieve in a few days what they had failed to in the more than three years since Britons first voted to leave the European Union after nearly 50 years. German Chancellor Angela Merkel will discuss the available options with French President Emmanuel Macron late Sunday. European officials said the bloc's Brexit negotiator Michel Barnier will also brief EU ambassadors on the state of play on Sunday evening. Downing Street said Johnson told his cabinet to brace for a cliff-hanger finish in the coming days. Johnson reiterated "that a pathway to a deal could be seen but that there is still a significant amount of work to get there and we must remain prepared to leave on October 31," a Downing Street spokesman said. Outgoing EU chief Jean-Claude Juncker said British politics were getting more difficult to decipher than the riddle of an "Egyptian sphinx". "If the British ask for more time, which they would probably will not, it would in my view be historic nonsense to refuse them," Juncker told Austria's Kurier newspaper. Johnson rose to power in July on a promise not to extend Brexit for the third time - even for a few weeks. Breaking that pledge could come back to haunt him in an early general election that most predict for the coming months. Johnson is under parliamentary orders to seek an extension until January 31 of next year if no deal emerges by Saturday. He has promised to both follow the law and get Britain out by October 31 - a contradiction that might end up being settled in court. Watch: Typhoon Hagibis: 19 killed, at least 70 injured Parliamentary pressure Ireland's Varadkar hinted on Thursday that he could support the talks running on up to the October 31 deadline if a deal seemed within reach. The few details that have leaked out suggest a compromise around the contentious Irish border issue with Britain's Northern Ireland partially aligned with EU customs rules. Whether such a fudge suits both Brussels and the more ardent Brexit backers in parliament who must still approve a deal should become clearer by the end of the week. Britain will only avoid a chaotic breakup with its closest trading partners if the agreement is also passed by the UK parliament - something it has failed to do three times. Johnson heads a minority government and must rely on the full backing of not only his own fractured Conservatives but also Northern Ireland's small Democratic Unionist Party. DUP's parliamentary leader Nigel Dodds warned Johnson that "Northern Ireland must remain entirely in the customs union of the United Kingdom" and not the EU. "And Boris Johnson knows it very well," Dodds told Italy's La Repubblica newspaper. The comments do not necessarily rule out DUP support. UK media are presenting Johnson's mooted compromise as a "double customs" plan that could be interpreted to mean that Northern Ireland is leaving EU rules. Yet details are still under discussion and the prime minister's allies are urging lawmakers to give the British leader a chance. Main opposition Labour Party leader Jeremy Corbyn signalled Sunday that he would wait for the outcome of the EU summit before trying to force an early election. But he added that there there was "a strong possibility" that those polls would come before the Christmas break.

Britain's Johnson plays down Brexit breakthrough hopes

Thousands of people, some shouting "Erdogan terrorist", took to the streets of Paris and other European cities on Saturday in protest at the Turkish <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/as-new-syrian-exodus-unfolds-some-fear-they-will-never-go-home-255529">assault on Kurds in Syria</a>.

Protesters marching under the Kurdish green, red and yellow flag waved placards reading "Trump = serial killer" or calling Turkish President Recep Tayyip <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/germany-bans-weapons-sales-to-turkey-over-syria-offensive-255539">Erdogan "the true leader of Daesh,"</a> the Arabic acronym for the Islamic State jihadist group.

Organisers said "more than 20,000 people" took part in the demonstration in Paris after Ankara stepped up its assault on Kurdish-held border towns in northeastern Syria on Saturday, defying mounting threats of international sanctions.

"Turkey is invading Rojava (the self-proclaimed Kurdish zone in northeast Syria) and Europe is watching," they shouted as they marched towards Chatelet in central Paris. Police in the capital estimated 4,000 people had taken part.

In France, a spokesman for one Kurdish group called for US and European Union sanctions against Turkey.

There were similar protests in other French cities including Marseille, Strasbourg -- the seat of the European parliament -- Bordeaux, Lille and Grenoble.

The Turkish offensive began on Wednesday after US President Donald Trump ordered American troops to pull back from the border.

Trump has faced a storm of criticism for abandoning a loyal ally in the US-led campaign against the Islamic State group.

Pro-Kurdish protests were also held across Germany with more than 10,000 participants in Cologne, according to news agency DPA.&nbsp;

Several hundred demonstrated in the Hungarian capital Budapest outside the Turkish and US embassies, chanting &nbsp;"Trump-Orban-Erdogan dictators!". Viktor Orban is Hungary's populist right-wing prime minister.

Scores of Kurds also marched through Cyprus’s capital Nicosia, with one protester holding up a banner that read: "Do not be an accomplice to the genocide of the Kurdish nation."

'Ethnic cleansing'

Thousands marched in Vienna while in Athens, some 1,800 people according to police tried to march on the Turkish embassy, shouting "Erdogan terrorist".

A similar protest was held in Zurich's old quarter to the strains of Kurdish music. "Turkish army out of Kurdistan", the protesters cried. "Stop terror."

About 5,000 people marched to the Swedish parliament in Stockholm. Similar protests were staged in The Hague, Warsaw and Brussels.&nbsp;

"Turkey is trying to carry out ethnic cleansing and reinforce jihadism ... to make the West kneel," said Agit Polat, spokesman for the Kurdish Democratic Council in France, speaking in Paris.

Watch video:

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/wion-edit-what-led-to-trumps-syria-u-turn-255071/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

"Since the beginning of the Turkish army invasion operation, dormant Daesh cells have committed attacks.

"At all costs, there must be concrete economic sanctions from the European Union and the United States vis-avis Turkey," he added.

Polat also urged France to recall its ambassador to Turkey.&nbsp;

Several French politicians from leftist to green took part in the Paris march.

"It is historical nonsense what is happening in the north-east of Syria because they are the most faithful allies of France," said Eric Coquerel, a lawmaker for the radical left France Unbowed party.

Just hours before Paris announced the measure, Green Party senator Esther Benbassa called on France to suspend the sale of arms to Turkey -- a measure already announced by Finland, Germany, Norway and The Netherlands.

Thousands of people, some shouting "Erdogan terrorist", took to the streets of Paris and other European cities on Saturday in protest at the Turkish assault on Kurds in Syria.

Thousands of people, some shouting "Erdogan terrorist", took to the streets of Paris and other European cities on Saturday in protest at the Turkish assault on Kurds in Syria. Protesters marching under the Kurdish green, red and yellow flag waved placards reading "Trump = serial killer" or calling Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan "the true leader of Daesh," the Arabic acronym for the Islamic State jihadist group. Organisers said "more than 20,000 people" took part in the demonstration in Paris after Ankara stepped up its assault on Kurdish-held border towns in northeastern Syria on Saturday, defying mounting threats of international sanctions. "Turkey is invading Rojava (the self-proclaimed Kurdish zone in northeast Syria) and Europe is watching," they shouted as they marched towards Chatelet in central Paris. Police in the capital estimated 4,000 people had taken part. In France, a spokesman for one Kurdish group called for US and European Union sanctions against Turkey. There were similar protests in other French cities including Marseille, Strasbourg -- the seat of the European parliament -- Bordeaux, Lille and Grenoble. The Turkish offensive began on Wednesday after US President Donald Trump ordered American troops to pull back from the border. Trump has faced a storm of criticism for abandoning a loyal ally in the US-led campaign against the Islamic State group. Pro-Kurdish protests were also held across Germany with more than 10,000 participants in Cologne, according to news agency DPA. Several hundred demonstrated in the Hungarian capital Budapest outside the Turkish and US embassies, chanting "Trump-Orban-Erdogan dictators!". Viktor Orban is Hungary's populist right-wing prime minister. Scores of Kurds also marched through Cyprus’s capital Nicosia, with one protester holding up a banner that read: "Do not be an accomplice to the genocide of the Kurdish nation." 'Ethnic cleansing' Thousands marched in Vienna while in Athens, some 1,800 people according to police tried to march on the Turkish embassy, shouting "Erdogan terrorist". A similar protest was held in Zurich's old quarter to the strains of Kurdish music. "Turkish army out of Kurdistan", the protesters cried. "Stop terror." About 5,000 people marched to the Swedish parliament in Stockholm. Similar protests were staged in The Hague, Warsaw and Brussels. "Turkey is trying to carry out ethnic cleansing and reinforce jihadism ... to make the West kneel," said Agit Polat, spokesman for the Kurdish Democratic Council in France, speaking in Paris. Watch video: "Since the beginning of the Turkish army invasion operation, dormant Daesh cells have committed attacks. "At all costs, there must be concrete economic sanctions from the European Union and the United States vis-avis Turkey," he added. Polat also urged France to recall its ambassador to Turkey. Several French politicians from leftist to green took part in the Paris march. "It is historical nonsense what is happening in the north-east of Syria because they are the most faithful allies of France," said Eric Coquerel, a lawmaker for the radical left France Unbowed party. Just hours before Paris announced the measure, Green Party senator Esther Benbassa called on France to suspend the sale of arms to Turkey -- a measure already announced by Finland, Germany, Norway and The Netherlands.

Thousands protest in Europe against Turkey's assault on Syria

British and EU negotiators held a "constructive" breakfast meeting Friday in a last-ditch bid to restart Brexit talks, as leaders insisted a deal might yet be possible despite time running out fast.

British Brexit minister <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uk-brexit-minister-to-meet-eu-negotiator-thursday-london-254756">Stephen Barclay and EU negotiator</a> Michel Barnier met for two hours in the Brussels headquarters of the European Union.

"We had a constructive meeting with Steve Barclay and the British team," Barnier told reporters. "I have already said that the Brexit is like climbing a mountain and we need vigilance, determination and patience."

A British spokesman also described the closed-door talks as a "constructive meeting".

Neither side would reveal any detail about what was discussed, but a European diplomat told AFP: "At this stage, the less we hear, the better. If stuff starts leaking out, it means it's not serious."

Another European official close to the discussions suggested the restart was at an early stage, but that the process might suddenly accelerate: "We're completing the qualifiers for the 100-metre dash."

The meeting came one day after talks between Prime Minister Boris Johnson and his Irish counterpart Leo Varadkar, and just six days before the EU summit that is seen as the key date in efforts to find a deal before a chaotic divorce on October 31.

As the negotiators reviewed their options, the president of the European Council and host of next week's Brussels summit Donald Tusk said that he would have pulled the plug on talks this Friday if Britain had not come forward with evidence of a workable proposal.

"However, yesterday, when the Irish taoiseach and the UK prime minister met they both saw, for the first time, a pathway to a deal. I have received promising signals from the taoiseach that a deal is still possible," Tusk said, during a trip to Cyprus.

"Of course, there is no guarantee of success and the time is practically up. But even the slightest chance must be used," he warned.

The key sticking point in the Brexit negotiations is how to handle trade and customs on the border between EU member Ireland and the British province of Northern Ireland, and on the role of the British province's devolved assembly.

After a meeting in northwest England on Thursday Johnson and Varadkar said they had "agreed that they could see a pathway to a possible deal".

Varadkar later said separately the meeting was "very positive", suggesting it would be a "short pathway, rather than a long one".

The European Council summit starts on October 17 and, in normal circumstances, European diplomats would want draft texts of any agreements to be prepared before close of business on Friday.

Even if, as UK officials hope, Brussels shows flexibility on the timeline, they have yet to enter the "diplomatic tunnel" of final text negotiations.

After his "stock-taking" breakfast with Barclay, Barnier will brief ambassadors from the other EU members on the state of play and then a skeptical Brexit steering group of the European Parliament.

"Barnier will have to say whether we can or can't start negotiating a text," a European source told AFP.

"After that, it's a long road. It's wacky to think we'd have a treaty text before the October 17 and 18 summit."

But Varadkar appears to be looking slightly further forward, implying that he and Johnson are now aiming for a deal in the next three weeks.

"I think it's possible for us to come to an agreement, to have a treaty agreed... by the end of October," he said.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/british-pm-boris-johnson-warns-european-union-he-will-not-delay-brexit-254136">Johnson has vowed</a> Britain will end its five-decade membership of the EU on October 31, with or without agreeing exit terms.

But he could be forced to seek a third delay to Brexit if he fails to agree a deal by October 19, thanks to a law passed by <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/johnson-faces-cabinet-revolt-over-no-deal-brexit-report-254678/amp">rebellious MPs</a>.

Some European sources in Brussels have suggested that EU leaders may offer Britain an extension even if Johnson does not ask for one.

British and EU negotiators held a "constructive" breakfast meeting Friday in a last-ditch bid to restart Brexit talks, as leaders insisted a deal might yet be possible despite time running out fast.

British and EU negotiators held a "constructive" breakfast meeting Friday in a last-ditch bid to restart Brexit talks, as leaders insisted a deal might yet be possible despite time running out fast. British Brexit minister Stephen Barclay and EU negotiator Michel Barnier met for two hours in the Brussels headquarters of the European Union. "We had a constructive meeting with Steve Barclay and the British team," Barnier told reporters. "I have already said that the Brexit is like climbing a mountain and we need vigilance, determination and patience." A British spokesman also described the closed-door talks as a "constructive meeting". Neither side would reveal any detail about what was discussed, but a European diplomat told AFP: "At this stage, the less we hear, the better. If stuff starts leaking out, it means it's not serious." Another European official close to the discussions suggested the restart was at an early stage, but that the process might suddenly accelerate: "We're completing the qualifiers for the 100-metre dash." The meeting came one day after talks between Prime Minister Boris Johnson and his Irish counterpart Leo Varadkar, and just six days before the EU summit that is seen as the key date in efforts to find a deal before a chaotic divorce on October 31. As the negotiators reviewed their options, the president of the European Council and host of next week's Brussels summit Donald Tusk said that he would have pulled the plug on talks this Friday if Britain had not come forward with evidence of a workable proposal. "However, yesterday, when the Irish taoiseach and the UK prime minister met they both saw, for the first time, a pathway to a deal. I have received promising signals from the taoiseach that a deal is still possible," Tusk said, during a trip to Cyprus. "Of course, there is no guarantee of success and the time is practically up. But even the slightest chance must be used," he warned. The key sticking point in the Brexit negotiations is how to handle trade and customs on the border between EU member Ireland and the British province of Northern Ireland, and on the role of the British province's devolved assembly. After a meeting in northwest England on Thursday Johnson and Varadkar said they had "agreed that they could see a pathway to a possible deal". Varadkar later said separately the meeting was "very positive", suggesting it would be a "short pathway, rather than a long one". The European Council summit starts on October 17 and, in normal circumstances, European diplomats would want draft texts of any agreements to be prepared before close of business on Friday. Even if, as UK officials hope, Brussels shows flexibility on the timeline, they have yet to enter the "diplomatic tunnel" of final text negotiations. After his "stock-taking" breakfast with Barclay, Barnier will brief ambassadors from the other EU members on the state of play and then a skeptical Brexit steering group of the European Parliament. "Barnier will have to say whether we can or can't start negotiating a text," a European source told AFP. "After that, it's a long road. It's wacky to think we'd have a treaty text before the October 17 and 18 summit." But Varadkar appears to be looking slightly further forward, implying that he and Johnson are now aiming for a deal in the next three weeks. "I think it's possible for us to come to an agreement, to have a treaty agreed... by the end of October," he said. Johnson has vowed Britain will end its five-decade membership of the EU on October 31, with or without agreeing exit terms. But he could be forced to seek a third delay to Brexit if he fails to agree a deal by October 19, thanks to a law passed by rebellious MPs. Some European sources in Brussels have suggested that EU leaders may offer Britain an extension even if Johnson does not ask for one.

EU and UK bid to save Brexit talks before key summit

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

How the world is reacting to Turkey's assault in Syria

North Korea on Thursday slammed a statement by European UN Security Council members urging strict enforcement of sanctions against Pyongyang for its <a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/north-korea-launches-2-missiles-in-the-sea-one-enters-japanese-waters-253251">latest missile test,</a> calling the move a "serious provocation".

Pyongyang fired a <a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/north-korea-says-successfully-tested-new-submarine-launched-ballistic-missile-kcna-253359">sea-launched missile</a> on October 2 in the latest -- and most provocative -- of a series of weapons tests, just days before long-stalled US-North Korean nuclear talks were to resume in Sweden.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/north-korea-breaks-off-nuclear-talks-with-united-states-in-sweden-254080">The North then walked away from the Stockholm talks</a> on Saturday saying it was disappointed at the lack of "new and creative" solutions offered by Washington, although the US said it was willing to meet again in two weeks.

In their statement at the UN Tuesday, the Europeans -- France, Belgium, Germany, Poland, Britain and Estonia -- condemned Pyongyang's tests and urged it to engage in "good faith in meaningful negotiations with the United States."

The North on Thursday accused the Europeans of double standards.

"The UNSC which champions fairness and equity picks fault with the just measure belonging to our right to self-defence, while keeping mum about the test-fire of Minuteman 3 intercontinental ballistic missile recently conducted by the US. This is a serious provocation against the DPRK," a foreign ministry spokesperson said.

DPRK are the initials for North Korea's official name.

Washington has spent decades and billions of dollars developing technologies to try to stop an incoming ballistic missile, and said last week that it had tested an unarmed Minuteman III ICBM.

"But there is a limit to the patience of the DPRK and there is no guarantee that all our patience would continue indefinitely," the North Korean spokesperson added in a statement carried by the official Korean Central News Agency.

Pyongyang declared a moratorium on intercontinental ballistic missile launches and nuclear tests at the end of 2017, saying it had completed the development of the deterrent, which it says it needs to defend against a possible US invasion.

The nuclear-armed North is under multiple sets of sanctions imposed by the UN, US, EU and others in an attempt to dissuade it from pursuing its weapons programmes.

Under leader Kim Jong Un it has carried out more than 100 missile launches, including ICBMs capable of reaching the entire United States, and in 2017 detonated its sixth nuclear blast.

Last week, it tested a device it said was a submarine-launched ballistic missile that marked a "new phase" in its capabilities, although the US said it seemed to have been fired from a "sea-based platform".

In their statement, the European Security Council members said the North's missile tests "undermine regional security and stability and they are in clear violation of UN Security Council resolutions.

"International sanctions must remain in place and be fully and strictly enforced," they added. 
&nbsp;

North Korea on Thursday slammed a statement by European UN Security Council members urging strict enforcement of sanctions against Pyongyang for its latest missile test, calling the move a "serious provocation".

North Korea on Thursday slammed a statement by European UN Security Council members urging strict enforcement of sanctions against Pyongyang for its latest missile test, calling the move a "serious provocation". Pyongyang fired a sea-launched missile on October 2 in the latest -- and most provocative -- of a series of weapons tests, just days before long-stalled US-North Korean nuclear talks were to resume in Sweden. The North then walked away from the Stockholm talks on Saturday saying it was disappointed at the lack of "new and creative" solutions offered by Washington, although the US said it was willing to meet again in two weeks. In their statement at the UN Tuesday, the Europeans -- France, Belgium, Germany, Poland, Britain and Estonia -- condemned Pyongyang's tests and urged it to engage in "good faith in meaningful negotiations with the United States." The North on Thursday accused the Europeans of double standards. "The UNSC which champions fairness and equity picks fault with the just measure belonging to our right to self-defence, while keeping mum about the test-fire of Minuteman 3 intercontinental ballistic missile recently conducted by the US. This is a serious provocation against the DPRK," a foreign ministry spokesperson said. DPRK are the initials for North Korea's official name. Washington has spent decades and billions of dollars developing technologies to try to stop an incoming ballistic missile, and said last week that it had tested an unarmed Minuteman III ICBM. "But there is a limit to the patience of the DPRK and there is no guarantee that all our patience would continue indefinitely," the North Korean spokesperson added in a statement carried by the official Korean Central News Agency. Pyongyang declared a moratorium on intercontinental ballistic missile launches and nuclear tests at the end of 2017, saying it had completed the development of the deterrent, which it says it needs to defend against a possible US invasion. The nuclear-armed North is under multiple sets of sanctions imposed by the UN, US, EU and others in an attempt to dissuade it from pursuing its weapons programmes. Under leader Kim Jong Un it has carried out more than 100 missile launches, including ICBMs capable of reaching the entire United States, and in 2017 detonated its sixth nuclear blast. Last week, it tested a device it said was a submarine-launched ballistic missile that marked a "new phase" in its capabilities, although the US said it seemed to have been fired from a "sea-based platform". In their statement, the European Security Council members said the North's missile tests "undermine regional security and stability and they are in clear violation of UN Security Council resolutions. "International sanctions must remain in place and be fully and strictly enforced," they added.

North Korea slams Europeans over criticism of missile test

British Prime Minister <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/britains-brexit-talks-with-eu-teeter-on-verge-of-collapse-254597">Boris&nbsp;Johnson</a>&nbsp;is facing a fresh rebellion in his&nbsp;cabinet, with a group of ministers poised to resign due to concerns that he is leading the country towards a<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/brexit-deal-is-essentially-impossible-ever-downing-street-source-254498"> no-deal&nbsp;Brexit,</a> The Times newspaper&nbsp;reported on Wednesday.

Culture Secretary Nicky Morgan, British Minister for Northern Ireland Julian Smith, Justice Secretary Robert Buckland, Health Minister Matt Hancock, and Attorney General Geoffrey Cox are all on a "resignation watch list", according to The Times&nbsp;report.

An unnamed&nbsp;cabinet&nbsp;minister cited by the newspaper said that a "very large number" of Conservative members of parliament will quit if it comes to a no-deal&nbsp;Brexit.

The Times said that ministers had warned&nbsp;Johnson&nbsp;in a&nbsp;cabinet&nbsp;meeting about the "grave" risk of the return of direct rule in Northern Ireland and raised concerns about Dominic Cummings,&nbsp;Johnson's top adviser.

"Cabinet&nbsp;will set the strategy, not unelected officials. If this is an attempt to do that then it will fail", the&nbsp;report&nbsp;quoted another&nbsp;cabinet&nbsp;minister as saying.

While the Times newspaper did not specify how many Conservative lawmakers oppose a no-deal&nbsp;scenario, the Financial Times&nbsp;reported early on Wednesday that at least 50 members of parliament from the party will&nbsp;revolt&nbsp;against a general election manifesto pledging to pursue a no-deal&nbsp;Brexit.

Certain lawmakers from the party are considering running on a softer individual&nbsp;Brexit&nbsp;platform or even standing aside altogether as a Tory candidate, the FT&nbsp;report&nbsp;added.

The media&nbsp;reports come as the European Union accused Britain of playing a "stupid blame game"&nbsp;over&nbsp;Brexit&nbsp;after a Downing Street source told Reuters a&nbsp;deal&nbsp;was essentially impossible because German Chancellor Angela Merkel had made unacceptable demands.

With just&nbsp;over&nbsp;three weeks before the United Kingdom is due to leave the European bloc, the future of&nbsp;Brexit&nbsp;remains deeply uncertain as both London and Brussels position themselves to avoid blame for a delay or a disorderly no-deal&nbsp;Brexit.

British Prime Minister Boris Johnson is facing a fresh rebellion in his cabinet, with a group of ministers poised to resign due to concerns that he is leading the country towards a no-deal Brexit, The Times newspaper reported on Wednesday.

British Prime Minister Boris Johnson is facing a fresh rebellion in his cabinet, with a group of ministers poised to resign due to concerns that he is leading the country towards a no-deal Brexit, The Times newspaper reported on Wednesday. Culture Secretary Nicky Morgan, British Minister for Northern Ireland Julian Smith, Justice Secretary Robert Buckland, Health Minister Matt Hancock, and Attorney General Geoffrey Cox are all on a "resignation watch list", according to The Times report. An unnamed cabinet minister cited by the newspaper said that a "very large number" of Conservative members of parliament will quit if it comes to a no-deal Brexit. The Times said that ministers had warned Johnson in a cabinet meeting about the "grave" risk of the return of direct rule in Northern Ireland and raised concerns about Dominic Cummings, Johnson's top adviser. "Cabinet will set the strategy, not unelected officials. If this is an attempt to do that then it will fail", the report quoted another cabinet minister as saying. While the Times newspaper did not specify how many Conservative lawmakers oppose a no-deal scenario, the Financial Times reported early on Wednesday that at least 50 members of parliament from the party will revolt against a general election manifesto pledging to pursue a no-deal Brexit. Certain lawmakers from the party are considering running on a softer individual Brexit platform or even standing aside altogether as a Tory candidate, the FT report added. The media reports come as the European Union accused Britain of playing a "stupid blame game" over Brexit after a Downing Street source told Reuters a deal was essentially impossible because German Chancellor Angela Merkel had made unacceptable demands. With just over three weeks before the United Kingdom is due to leave the European bloc, the future of Brexit remains deeply uncertain as both London and Brussels position themselves to avoid blame for a delay or a disorderly no-deal Brexit.

UK PM Boris Johnson faces cabinet revolt over no-deal Brexit: Report

European Union chief Jean-Claude Juncker on Wednesday demanded&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/united-nations-security-council-head-appeals-to-turkey-for-restraint-in-syria-254812">Turkey halt its military operation against Kurdish militants in northern Syria</a>, telling Ankara the bloc would not pay for any so-called "safe zone" that might be created.

He spoke as Turkish forces launched an assault on Kurdish positions, with airstrikes and explosions reported near the border.

Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan announced the start of the&nbsp;attack, which is aimed at curbing the Kurdish-led Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF).

The SDF was previously allied to the US, which used it to crush the Islamic State group.

Juncker told the European Parliament he recognised Turkey had "security concerns" along the border. But he warned the military action would not lead to a "good result", saying a political solution was the only way to end the Syrian conflict.

"I call on <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/turkey-denies-initiation-of-syria-operation-254739">Turkey as well as the other actors to act with restraint and to stop operations already</a>, as we are speaking, underway," Juncker said.

"I have to say if the Turkish plan involves the creation of a so-called safe zone, don't expect the European Union to pay for any of it."

Ankara regards the Kurdish fighters as terrorists linked to insurgents inside Turkey. It wants to invade to create a "safe zone" on the Syrian side of the border where it could send back some of the 3.6 million refugees it hosts from Syria's eight-year civil war.

NATO member Turkey is technically a candidate country to join the European Union but accession talks are effectively frozen and ties between the Ankara and the bloc have limped along for years.

Ankara agreed to a $6.6 billion&nbsp;deal with Brussels to stem the influx of migrants to the EU in 2016, but relations soured after Erdogan unleashed a major crackdown in the wake of a failed coup to overthrow him in the same year.

European Union chief Jean-Claude Juncker on Wednesday demanded Turkey halt its military operation against Kurdish militants in northern Syria, telling Ankara the bloc would not pay for any so-called "safe zone" that might be created.

European Union chief Jean-Claude Juncker on Wednesday demanded Turkey halt its military operation against Kurdish militants in northern Syria, telling Ankara the bloc would not pay for any so-called "safe zone" that might be created. He spoke as Turkish forces launched an assault on Kurdish positions, with airstrikes and explosions reported near the border. Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan announced the start of the attack, which is aimed at curbing the Kurdish-led Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF). The SDF was previously allied to the US, which used it to crush the Islamic State group. Juncker told the European Parliament he recognised Turkey had "security concerns" along the border. But he warned the military action would not lead to a "good result", saying a political solution was the only way to end the Syrian conflict. "I call on Turkey as well as the other actors to act with restraint and to stop operations already, as we are speaking, underway," Juncker said. "I have to say if the Turkish plan involves the creation of a so-called safe zone, don't expect the European Union to pay for any of it." Ankara regards the Kurdish fighters as terrorists linked to insurgents inside Turkey. It wants to invade to create a "safe zone" on the Syrian side of the border where it could send back some of the 3.6 million refugees it hosts from Syria's eight-year civil war. NATO member Turkey is technically a candidate country to join the European Union but accession talks are effectively frozen and ties between the Ankara and the bloc have limped along for years. Ankara agreed to a $6.6 billion deal with Brussels to stem the influx of migrants to the EU in 2016, but relations soured after Erdogan unleashed a major crackdown in the wake of a failed coup to overthrow him in the same year.

European Union urges Turkey to halt Syria offensive, will not pay for 'safe zone'

It will be&nbsp;very&nbsp;difficult&nbsp;to&nbsp;secure&nbsp;a&nbsp;Brexit&nbsp;agreement by&nbsp;next&nbsp;week&nbsp;with big gaps remaining in the British position,&nbsp;Irish&nbsp;Prime Minister Leo Varadkar said on Tuesday following a phone call with his British counterpart, Boris Johnson.

"I'll certainly work until the&nbsp;very&nbsp;last moment to&nbsp;secure&nbsp;that (a&nbsp;deal) but not at any cost... I think it will be&nbsp;very&nbsp;difficult&nbsp;to&nbsp;secure&nbsp;an agreement by&nbsp;next&nbsp;week, quite frankly," Varadkar told&nbsp;Irish&nbsp;national broadcaster RTE.

"Essentially what the United Kingdom has done is repudiated the&nbsp;deal&nbsp;that we negotiated in good faith with Prime Minister May's government over two years and has sort of put half of that now back on the table and are saying that's a concession and of course it isn't really. There are two big gaps."

Johnson has consistently said the United Kingdom will leave the EU on October&nbsp;31 with or without a&nbsp;deal, though a law passed by parliament demands he write a letter to the EU asking for a delay if he cannot strike an exit&nbsp;deal&nbsp;by October 19.

He has said he would abide by the law but <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/british-pm-boris-johnson-warns-european-union-he-will-not-delay-brexit-254136">Britain would leave the EU by the end of the month</a>, without explaining that contradiction. He has also repeatedly demanded an election but parliament has refused to grant one.

The European Union has accused Britain of playing a <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/at-stake-is-not-winning-some-stupid-blame-game-tusk-to-pm-johnson-on-brexit-254552">"stupid blame game"</a> over&nbsp;Brexit&nbsp;after a Downing Street source said a&nbsp;deal&nbsp;was essentially impossible because German Chancellor Angela Merkel had made unacceptable demands.

With just 22 days before the United Kingdom is due to leave the bloc, the future of&nbsp;Brexit&nbsp;remains deeply uncertain as both London and Brussels position themselves to avoid blame for a delay or a disorderly no-deal&nbsp;Brexit.

It will be very difficult to secure a Brexit agreement by next week with big gaps remaining in the British position, Irish Prime Minister Leo Varadkar said on Tuesday following a phone call with his British counterpart, Boris Johnson.

It will be very difficult to secure a Brexit agreement by next week with big gaps remaining in the British position, Irish Prime Minister Leo Varadkar said on Tuesday following a phone call with his British counterpart, Boris Johnson. "I'll certainly work until the very last moment to secure that (a deal) but not at any cost... I think it will be very difficult to secure an agreement by next week, quite frankly," Varadkar told Irish national broadcaster RTE. "Essentially what the United Kingdom has done is repudiated the deal that we negotiated in good faith with Prime Minister May's government over two years and has sort of put half of that now back on the table and are saying that's a concession and of course it isn't really. There are two big gaps." Johnson has consistently said the United Kingdom will leave the EU on October 31 with or without a deal, though a law passed by parliament demands he write a letter to the EU asking for a delay if he cannot strike an exit deal by October 19. He has said he would abide by the law but Britain would leave the EU by the end of the month, without explaining that contradiction. He has also repeatedly demanded an election but parliament has refused to grant one. The European Union has accused Britain of playing a "stupid blame game" over Brexit after a Downing Street source said a deal was essentially impossible because German Chancellor Angela Merkel had made unacceptable demands. With just 22 days before the United Kingdom is due to leave the bloc, the future of Brexit remains deeply uncertain as both London and Brussels position themselves to avoid blame for a delay or a disorderly no-deal Brexit.

Irish PM says very difficult to secure Brexit deal by next week

This segment of WION brings to you top stories of the morning from across the globe. Watch this video to get updated with the latest information.

WION Speed News: Watch top national and international news of the morning - October 8th, 2019

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

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

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

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

EU Council president Donald Tusk lashed out at <a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/uk-economy-starts-to-shows-cracks-under-brexit-and-global-strains-254409">British Prime Minister Boris Johnson</a> on Tuesday warning him not to play "some stupid blame game" over Brexit.

"PM Johnson what’s at stake is not winning some stupid blame game. At stake is the future of Europe and the UK as well as the security and interests of our people," the EU Council president said on Twitter, adding, "you don’t want a deal, you don’t want an extension, you don’t want to revoke, quo vadis?"

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.<a href="https://twitter.com/BorisJohnson?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@BorisJohnson</a>, what’s at stake is not winning some stupid blame game. At stake is the future of Europe and the UK as well as the security and interests of our people. You don’t want a deal, you don’t want an extension, you don’t want to revoke, quo vadis?
— Donald Tusk (@eucopresident) <a href="https://twitter.com/eucopresident/status/1181519363783974912?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 8, 2019</a></blockquote>
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In the final Brexit proposal last week, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/british-prime-minister-johnson-tells-eu-brexit-ball-is-in-your-court-now-254283">British PM Johnson had said</a> that he would leave the European Union(EU) on October 31, the deadline set by the European body for Britain's exit from the common market.

Despite Tusk's comments, European Commission spokeswoman, Mina Andreeva rejected reports that talks had broken down with Britain.

"Technical talks are continuing today so I don't see how talks could have actually been broken down if they are happening today and in the days to continue," the European Commission spokeswoman said.&nbsp;

"Our working assumption remains that the United Kingdom is leaving the EU on the 31st of October as they have notified to us and as Prime Minister Johnson keeps reiterating. And again, the principle of sincere cooperation is very important," Andreeva added.

With just weeks remaining, Johnson's move has run into trouble with several British lawmakers against a "no-deal" Brexit.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;&nbsp; 
Amid the uncertainty over Johnson's Brexit's plan, Ireland's finance minister Paschal Donohoe said today that the country's 2020 budget includes a $1.3 billion relief fund to cushion the economic blow if Britain leaves the European Union without a deal.

"I am today announcing a package of over euros $1.3 billion, excluding EU funding, to respond to Brexit", Donohoe said. "This is a budget that has been developed in the shadow of Brexit. And the context of Brexit has now shifted to no deal as our central assumption. This does not mean that no deal is inevitable, but equally we stand ready if it does happen," Ireland's finance minister added.

Meanwhile, The Institute for Fiscal Studies (IFS), a leading think tank warned that Britain's debt burden would jump to its highest level in 50 years if it leaves the EU without a deal.

The IFS &nbsp;said that a no-deal Brexit would likely lead to borrowing approaching £100 billion or four per cent of Britain's GDP.

EU Council president Donald Tusk lashed out at British Prime Minister Boris Johnson on Tuesday warning him not to play "some stupid blame game" over Brexit. "PM Johnson what’s at stake is not winning some stupid blame game.

EU Council president Donald Tusk lashed out at British Prime Minister Boris Johnson on Tuesday warning him not to play "some stupid blame game" over Brexit. "PM Johnson what’s at stake is not winning some stupid blame game. At stake is the future of Europe and the UK as well as the security and interests of our people," the EU Council president said on Twitter, adding, "you don’t want a deal, you don’t want an extension, you don’t want to revoke, quo vadis?" .@BorisJohnson, what’s at stake is not winning some stupid blame game. At stake is the future of Europe and the UK as well as the security and interests of our people. You don’t want a deal, you don’t want an extension, you don’t want to revoke, quo vadis? — Donald Tusk (@eucopresident) October 8, 2019 × In the final Brexit proposal last week, British PM Johnson had said that he would leave the European Union(EU) on October 31, the deadline set by the European body for Britain's exit from the common market. Despite Tusk's comments, European Commission spokeswoman, Mina Andreeva rejected reports that talks had broken down with Britain. "Technical talks are continuing today so I don't see how talks could have actually been broken down if they are happening today and in the days to continue," the European Commission spokeswoman said. "Our working assumption remains that the United Kingdom is leaving the EU on the 31st of October as they have notified to us and as Prime Minister Johnson keeps reiterating. And again, the principle of sincere cooperation is very important," Andreeva added. With just weeks remaining, Johnson's move has run into trouble with several British lawmakers against a "no-deal" Brexit. Amid the uncertainty over Johnson's Brexit's plan, Ireland's finance minister Paschal Donohoe said today that the country's 2020 budget includes a $1.3 billion relief fund to cushion the economic blow if Britain leaves the European Union without a deal. "I am today announcing a package of over euros $1.3 billion, excluding EU funding, to respond to Brexit", Donohoe said. "This is a budget that has been developed in the shadow of Brexit. And the context of Brexit has now shifted to no deal as our central assumption. This does not mean that no deal is inevitable, but equally we stand ready if it does happen," Ireland's finance minister added. Meanwhile, The Institute for Fiscal Studies (IFS), a leading think tank warned that Britain's debt burden would jump to its highest level in 50 years if it leaves the EU without a deal. The IFS said that a no-deal Brexit would likely lead to borrowing approaching £100 billion or four per cent of Britain's GDP.

At stake is not winning some stupid blame game: Tusk to PM Johnson on Brexit

A Brexit deal is essentially impossible as German Chancellor Angela Merkel has told Britain's Prime Minister Boris Johnson that to do one Northern Ireland must stay in the European Union's customs union, a Downing Street source said on Tuesday.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/british-prime-minister-johnson-tells-eu-brexit-ball-is-in-your-court-now-254283">With just 23 days to go before the United Kingdom is due to leave the EU</a>, the future of Brexit remains deeply uncertain and both London and Brussels are positioning themselves to avoid blame for a delay or a disorderly no-deal Brexit.

EU leaders reacted coolly to British Prime Minister Boris Johnson's last-ditch proposals to bridge the impasse, and while negotiations are ongoing, many diplomats say the chances of a swift deal before October 31 are low.

A source from Johnson's Downing Street office said Merkel spoke to the British leader on Tuesday morning and she made clear that a deal was "overwhelmingly unlikely".

Merkel said that for a deal, Northern Ireland would have to stay in the EU's customs union and full alignment with the EU forever, the source said.

"If this represents a newly established position then it means a deal is essentially impossible not just now but ever," the Downing Street source said. "It also made clear that they are willing to torpedo the Good Friday Agreement."

A Brexit deal is essentially impossible as German Chancellor Angela Merkel has told Britain's Prime Minister Boris Johnson that to do one Northern Ireland must stay in the European Union's customs union, a Downing Street source said on Tuesday.

A Brexit deal is essentially impossible as German Chancellor Angela Merkel has told Britain's Prime Minister Boris Johnson that to do one Northern Ireland must stay in the European Union's customs union, a Downing Street source said on Tuesday. With just 23 days to go before the United Kingdom is due to leave the EU, the future of Brexit remains deeply uncertain and both London and Brussels are positioning themselves to avoid blame for a delay or a disorderly no-deal Brexit. EU leaders reacted coolly to British Prime Minister Boris Johnson's last-ditch proposals to bridge the impasse, and while negotiations are ongoing, many diplomats say the chances of a swift deal before October 31 are low. A source from Johnson's Downing Street office said Merkel spoke to the British leader on Tuesday morning and she made clear that a deal was "overwhelmingly unlikely". Merkel said that for a deal, Northern Ireland would have to stay in the EU's customs union and full alignment with the EU forever, the source said. "If this represents a newly established position then it means a deal is essentially impossible not just now but ever," the Downing Street source said. "It also made clear that they are willing to torpedo the Good Friday Agreement."

Brexit deal is essentially impossible ever: Downing Street source

WION Speed News: Watch top national and international news of the morning - October 7th, 2019

British Prime Minister Boris Johnson warned the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/european-union-presses-uk-to-resubmit-brexit-plan-as-end-game-looms-254002">European Union</a> on Sunday he will not delay Brexit beyond October 31, underlining that his latest proposals are a last chance to reach a deal.

Johnson told French President Emmanuel Macron in a telephone call on Sunday that "the EU should not be lured into the mistaken belief that the UK will stay in the EU after October 31st", a Downing Street spokesman quoted him as saying.

The UK premier said he would not request another delay, despite British MPs passing a law last month that requires him to seek another Brexit delay if he fails to secure an agreement by the end of a make-or-break EU summit on October 17-18.

This law was "undermining negotiations, but if EU leaders are betting that it will prevent no deal, that would be a historic misunderstanding", a senior Downing Street source said.

"The UK has made a big, important offer but it’s time for the (European) Commission to show a willingness to compromise too. If not the UK will leave with no deal," the source added.

Watch: Is a Brexit Delay Inevitable?

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European leaders have reacted tepidly to London's latest propositions.

Britain has urged the EU to intensify talks over the proposals, as European leaders warned it must revise its plans within days in order to conclude a deal this month.

Brexit Secretary Stephen Barclay said the bloc needed to show "creativity and flexibility" ahead of October 31 -- when Johnson has vowed to end the country's 46 years of EU membership with or without an agreement.

With the EU asking for reworked proposals within days, an Elysee Palace spokesperson said Macron agreed in his call with Johnson that talks between EU top negotiator Michel Barnier's team and British officials should continue in the coming days "to assess if an agreement is possible" by the end of the week.&nbsp;

Barclay reiterated that the ideas Johnson has formally submitted to Brussels were "a broad landing zone" and "intense negotiations" were now necessary.

"We've set out very serious proposals including compromise on our side," he told the BBC.

"We do need to get into the intensive negotiations on the text to clarify what the deal is."

Barclay added the government was considering holding a parliamentary vote ahead of the EU summit to show Brussels the plans have MPs' support.

European leaders had reportedly balked at Britain's request to keep initial discussions on the proposals going through the weekend, and they will resume on Monday, with time running out ahead of the EU summit.&nbsp;

'No more dither'

Johnson began phoning European leaders at the weekend to sell his proposals, speaking to Dutch Prime Minister Mark Rutte on Saturday.

Rutte tweeted he had told Johnson "important questions remain about the British proposals" and "there is a lot of work to be done ahead" of the summit.

Barnier told an event in France Saturday that while an agreement was still possible it "will be very difficult to reach".

The British leader is hoping the threat of a messy no-deal departure in less than three weeks could force the EU to compromise.

Barclay said Sunday that the government would comply with the legislation requiring Johnson to seek another delay if no deal is reached.

But in identical articles for two Brexit-backing British tabloids, Johnson insisted the country will leave the bloc later this month.

'Ready to work'&nbsp;

The British proposals submitted to Brussels Wednesday centre on how to manage the post-Brexit border between British province Northern Ireland and EU member Ireland.

Johnson wants Northern Ireland's devolved assembly -- which has been suspended for almost three years -- to vote every four years on whether to maintain EU rather than British regulations there.

He has also proposed the province leaves the EU's customs union along with the rest of the UK, with required checks to rely on untried technology and carried out away from the sensitive border.

Brussels has said the plans "do not provide a basis for concluding an agreement".

It sees the potential for rampant smuggling while Ireland is concerned hardline Northern Irish unionists would have an effective veto.&nbsp;

Barclay, who travelled to Amsterdam Sunday for Brexit talks, suggested Britain could be willing to consider alternative ways of meeting its aims.

"We're ready to work on that," he said.

Ireland's leader Leo Varadkar said Saturday there is "plenty of time" to put forward alternatives and he was trying to arrange a meeting with Johnson next week, Irish broadcaster RTE reported.

British Prime Minister Boris Johnson warned the European Union on Sunday he will not delay Brexit beyond October 31, underlining that his latest proposals are a last chance to reach a deal.

British Prime Minister Boris Johnson warned the European Union on Sunday he will not delay Brexit beyond October 31, underlining that his latest proposals are a last chance to reach a deal. Johnson told French President Emmanuel Macron in a telephone call on Sunday that "the EU should not be lured into the mistaken belief that the UK will stay in the EU after October 31st", a Downing Street spokesman quoted him as saying. The UK premier said he would not request another delay, despite British MPs passing a law last month that requires him to seek another Brexit delay if he fails to secure an agreement by the end of a make-or-break EU summit on October 17-18. This law was "undermining negotiations, but if EU leaders are betting that it will prevent no deal, that would be a historic misunderstanding", a senior Downing Street source said. "The UK has made a big, important offer but it’s time for the (European) Commission to show a willingness to compromise too. If not the UK will leave with no deal," the source added. Watch: Is a Brexit Delay Inevitable? × European leaders have reacted tepidly to London's latest propositions. Britain has urged the EU to intensify talks over the proposals, as European leaders warned it must revise its plans within days in order to conclude a deal this month. Brexit Secretary Stephen Barclay said the bloc needed to show "creativity and flexibility" ahead of October 31 -- when Johnson has vowed to end the country's 46 years of EU membership with or without an agreement. With the EU asking for reworked proposals within days, an Elysee Palace spokesperson said Macron agreed in his call with Johnson that talks between EU top negotiator Michel Barnier's team and British officials should continue in the coming days "to assess if an agreement is possible" by the end of the week. Barclay reiterated that the ideas Johnson has formally submitted to Brussels were "a broad landing zone" and "intense negotiations" were now necessary. "We've set out very serious proposals including compromise on our side," he told the BBC. "We do need to get into the intensive negotiations on the text to clarify what the deal is." Barclay added the government was considering holding a parliamentary vote ahead of the EU summit to show Brussels the plans have MPs' support. European leaders had reportedly balked at Britain's request to keep initial discussions on the proposals going through the weekend, and they will resume on Monday, with time running out ahead of the EU summit. 'No more dither' Johnson began phoning European leaders at the weekend to sell his proposals, speaking to Dutch Prime Minister Mark Rutte on Saturday. Rutte tweeted he had told Johnson "important questions remain about the British proposals" and "there is a lot of work to be done ahead" of the summit. Barnier told an event in France Saturday that while an agreement was still possible it "will be very difficult to reach". The British leader is hoping the threat of a messy no-deal departure in less than three weeks could force the EU to compromise. Barclay said Sunday that the government would comply with the legislation requiring Johnson to seek another delay if no deal is reached. But in identical articles for two Brexit-backing British tabloids, Johnson insisted the country will leave the bloc later this month. 'Ready to work' The British proposals submitted to Brussels Wednesday centre on how to manage the post-Brexit border between British province Northern Ireland and EU member Ireland. Johnson wants Northern Ireland's devolved assembly -- which has been suspended for almost three years -- to vote every four years on whether to maintain EU rather than British regulations there. He has also proposed the province leaves the EU's customs union along with the rest of the UK, with required checks to rely on untried technology and carried out away from the sensitive border. Brussels has said the plans "do not provide a basis for concluding an agreement". It sees the potential for rampant smuggling while Ireland is concerned hardline Northern Irish unionists would have an effective veto. Barclay, who travelled to Amsterdam Sunday for Brexit talks, suggested Britain could be willing to consider alternative ways of meeting its aims. "We're ready to work on that," he said. Ireland's leader Leo Varadkar said Saturday there is "plenty of time" to put forward alternatives and he was trying to arrange a meeting with Johnson next week, Irish broadcaster RTE reported.

British PM Boris Johnson warns European Union he will not delay Brexit

Prime Minister Boris Johnson told the European Union on Monday that the Brexit ball was in its court and that the bloc should now urgently discuss in detail his proposal for breaking the deadlock ahead of Britain's scheduled departure on October 31.

Prime Minister Boris Johnson told the European Union on Monday that the Brexit ball was in its court and that the bloc should now urgently discuss in detail his proposal for breaking the deadlock ahead of Britain's scheduled departure on October 31. With just 24 days before the United Kingdom is due to leave the EU, both sides are positioning themselves to avoid blame for a delay or a disorderly no-deal Brexit. EU leaders reacted coolly to Johnson's last-ditch proposals to bridge the impasse, indicating just how far apart the two sides are over the first departure of a sovereign state from the EU, which was forged from Europe's ruins after World War Two. "What we're saying to our friends is (that) this is a very generous, fair and reasonable offer we've made. What we'd like to hear from you now is what your thoughts are," Johnson told reporters. "If you have issues with any of the proposals that we've come up with, then let's get into the detail and discuss them," he said, reiterating his position that the United Kingdom would leave the EU on Oct. 31. At stake are the unity of the United Kingdom, global growth and the future shape of the European project. Johnson made his proposal to the EU last Wednesday, offering a possible compromise on the Irish border - the most contentious issue - that drew a polite but cool reception from the EU. He went further than many had expected on trying to solve the dilemma over the border between British-ruled Northern Ireland and EU member Ireland by proposing an all-island regulatory zone to cover all goods. This would replace the so-called "backstop" arrangement he says Britain cannot accept. However, Northern Ireland would leave the EU's customs area along with the rest of the UK and the province's institutions would have the power to remain in or to exit the regulatory zone - possibly a step too far for Ireland and the EU. Brexit crunch Johnson outlined his latest proposals in a telephone call to French President Emmanuel Macron on Sunday, an Elysee official said. Macron urged Johnson to engage in detailed discussions with the EU's chief Brexit negotiator, the official said. "The president told him the negotiations should continue swiftly with Michel Barnier's team in coming days, in order to evaluate at the end of the week whether a deal is possible that respects European Union principles," the official said. The EU must match the compromises made by Britain to secure a Brexit deal, Johnson's spokesman said on Monday. The spokesman acknowledged that the talks on a Brexit deal were subject to time pressure, and said Johnson was engaging with foreign leaders on the plans he had proposed. "We are ready to talk to the EU at pace to secure a deal so that we can move on and build a new partnership between the UK and the EU, but if this is to be possible, the EU must match the compromises that the UK has made," the spokesman said. "The PM still believes there is an opportunity to get a deal done, but the EU must understand, in order to achieve that, the backstop has to be removed." The backstop aims to avoid the imposition of any border checks on the island of Ireland after Brexit. Johnson argues that it would either split Northern Ireland from the rest of the United Kingdom in the area of customs or else risk trapping the whole UK in a permanent customs union with the EU.

British Prime Minister Johnson tells EU: Brexit ball is in your court now

Britain is open to some flexibility on the proposed mechanism that would allow lawmakers in post-Brexit Northern Ireland to decide whether the British province remains in regulatory alignment with the European Union, its Brexit minister said.

The mechanism, set out in London's latest Brexit proposals, aims to resolve the biggest sticking point in negotiations: the currently seamless border between Northern Ireland and Ireland.

"The key issue is the principle of consent, that's why the backstop was rejected three times, that was the concern in terms of both sides in Northern Ireland not approving of the backstop," Stephen Barclay told the BBC's Andrew Marr on Sunday.

"So the key is the principle of consent, now of course in the mechanism, as part of the intensive negotiations we could look at that and discuss that."

The 500-km (300-mile) border will be the United Kingdom's only land frontier with the bloc after it leaves.

The problem is how to prevent Northern Ireland becoming a "back door" into the EU's single market and customs union without erecting border controls that could undermine the 1998 Good Friday Agreement, which ended decades of political and sectarian violence in Northern Ireland in which more than 3,600 people were killed.

British Prime Minister Boris Johnson has said he cannot accept the so-called backstop arrangement included in the Withdrawal Agreement negotiated with the EU by his predecessor Theresa May, which British lawmakers rejected three times.

He made what he called a final Brexit offer to the European Union on Wednesday that centres on replacing the backstop with a proposal for an all-island regulatory zone to cover all goods.

The proposal also says the legislative assembly in Northern Ireland -- which has been suspended since 2017 -- would have the right to decide every four years whether it wants to continue to abide by EU rules on traded goods.

The European Union and Ireland, however, said the proposals were unlikely to result in a deal without more concessions.

Irish Prime Minister Leo Varadkar said he did not fully understand how the British proposals might work and that Dublin could not sign up to a treaty that did not safeguard an open Irish-British border.

His deputy, Simon Coveney, said giving the Northern Ireland Assembly a vote on single market alignment would in effect give a veto to any one party.

He also raised concerns about the proposed customs arrangements that would require checks and controls even if, as proposed, they do not take place at or near the border.

Barclay said Britain was willing to discuss the detail of customs proposals, adding: "We have set out a broad landing zone, in the detail of the negotiations, of course we can get into the details of how operationally they work, what legal certainty is required."

No dither

Writing in the Sun on Sunday newspaper, Johnson said the proposals were a "practical compromise that gives ground where necessary while still protecting the UK's interests and the Brexit this country voted for".

He said lawmakers from every wing of his Conservative Party, from his allies in Northern Ireland's DUP and even from the opposition Labour Party had said they could get behind the deal.

"And I salute the spirit of compromise from MPs on all sides who have looked at what's on the table, reflected on what's best for their constituents, and decided they are willing to put aside their personal beliefs and back the deal that they know will get Brexit done," he said.

With the Oct. 31 deadline approaching, Johnson has consistently said he will not ask for another delay to Brexit, but also that he will not break a law that forces him to request one if no withdrawal deal has been agreed by Oct. 19. He has not explained the apparent contradiction in his comments.

Johnson discussed his proposals with French President Emmanuel Macron and Portuguese Prime Minister Antonio Costa on Sunday.

He urged Macron to "push forward" to secure a deal and said the EU should not be lured into the mistaken belief that the UK would stay in the EU after Oct.31, Number 10 said.

Macron told Johnson that talks should continue swiftly with EU chief negotiator Michel Barnier's team in the coming days, in order to evaluate at the end of the week whether a deal is possible that respects European Union principles, according to an Elysee official.

Johnson said in the Sun on Sunday that Britain could do a deal if the EU was willing.

"But they should be under no illusions or misapprehensions," he said. "There will be no more dither or delay. On Oct. 31 we are going to get Brexit done."

A senior source in Johnson's office said on Sunday there was a chance to get a deal done: a deal that is backed by lawmakers and a deal which involves compromise on all sides.

"The UK has made a big, important offer but it's time for the Commission to show a willingness to compromise too," the source said. "If not the UK will leave with no deal."

The government acknowledged for the first time on Friday that Johnson will send a letter to the EU asking for a Brexit delay if no divorce deal has been reached.

Britain is open to some flexibility on the proposed mechanism that would allow lawmakers in post-Brexit Northern Ireland to decide whether the British province remains in regulatory alignment with the European Union, its Brexit minister said.

Britain is open to some flexibility on the proposed mechanism that would allow lawmakers in post-Brexit Northern Ireland to decide whether the British province remains in regulatory alignment with the European Union, its Brexit minister said. The mechanism, set out in London's latest Brexit proposals, aims to resolve the biggest sticking point in negotiations: the currently seamless border between Northern Ireland and Ireland. "The key issue is the principle of consent, that's why the backstop was rejected three times, that was the concern in terms of both sides in Northern Ireland not approving of the backstop," Stephen Barclay told the BBC's Andrew Marr on Sunday. "So the key is the principle of consent, now of course in the mechanism, as part of the intensive negotiations we could look at that and discuss that." The 500-km (300-mile) border will be the United Kingdom's only land frontier with the bloc after it leaves. The problem is how to prevent Northern Ireland becoming a "back door" into the EU's single market and customs union without erecting border controls that could undermine the 1998 Good Friday Agreement, which ended decades of political and sectarian violence in Northern Ireland in which more than 3,600 people were killed. British Prime Minister Boris Johnson has said he cannot accept the so-called backstop arrangement included in the Withdrawal Agreement negotiated with the EU by his predecessor Theresa May, which British lawmakers rejected three times. He made what he called a final Brexit offer to the European Union on Wednesday that centres on replacing the backstop with a proposal for an all-island regulatory zone to cover all goods. The proposal also says the legislative assembly in Northern Ireland -- which has been suspended since 2017 -- would have the right to decide every four years whether it wants to continue to abide by EU rules on traded goods. The European Union and Ireland, however, said the proposals were unlikely to result in a deal without more concessions. Irish Prime Minister Leo Varadkar said he did not fully understand how the British proposals might work and that Dublin could not sign up to a treaty that did not safeguard an open Irish-British border. His deputy, Simon Coveney, said giving the Northern Ireland Assembly a vote on single market alignment would in effect give a veto to any one party. He also raised concerns about the proposed customs arrangements that would require checks and controls even if, as proposed, they do not take place at or near the border. Barclay said Britain was willing to discuss the detail of customs proposals, adding: "We have set out a broad landing zone, in the detail of the negotiations, of course we can get into the details of how operationally they work, what legal certainty is required." No dither Writing in the Sun on Sunday newspaper, Johnson said the proposals were a "practical compromise that gives ground where necessary while still protecting the UK's interests and the Brexit this country voted for". He said lawmakers from every wing of his Conservative Party, from his allies in Northern Ireland's DUP and even from the opposition Labour Party had said they could get behind the deal. "And I salute the spirit of compromise from MPs on all sides who have looked at what's on the table, reflected on what's best for their constituents, and decided they are willing to put aside their personal beliefs and back the deal that they know will get Brexit done," he said. With the Oct. 31 deadline approaching, Johnson has consistently said he will not ask for another delay to Brexit, but also that he will not break a law that forces him to request one if no withdrawal deal has been agreed by Oct. 19. He has not explained the apparent contradiction in his comments. Johnson discussed his proposals with French President Emmanuel Macron and Portuguese Prime Minister Antonio Costa on Sunday. He urged Macron to "push forward" to secure a deal and said the EU should not be lured into the mistaken belief that the UK would stay in the EU after Oct.31, Number 10 said. Macron told Johnson that talks should continue swiftly with EU chief negotiator Michel Barnier's team in the coming days, in order to evaluate at the end of the week whether a deal is possible that respects European Union principles, according to an Elysee official. Johnson said in the Sun on Sunday that Britain could do a deal if the EU was willing. "But they should be under no illusions or misapprehensions," he said. "There will be no more dither or delay. On Oct. 31 we are going to get Brexit done." A senior source in Johnson's office said on Sunday there was a chance to get a deal done: a deal that is backed by lawmakers and a deal which involves compromise on all sides. "The UK has made a big, important offer but it's time for the Commission to show a willingness to compromise too," the source said. "If not the UK will leave with no deal." The government acknowledged for the first time on Friday that Johnson will send a letter to the EU asking for a Brexit delay if no divorce deal has been reached.

UK could be flexible on details of Northern Ireland veto, customs plan, says Brexit minister

British Prime Minister Boris Johnson started phoning EU leaders Saturday to sell his proposals for a managed Brexit, but he met with pressure to revise his offer -- and to do so quickly.

Finnish counterpart Antti Rinne -- whose country currently holds the rotating presidency of the European Union -- said he told Johnson "it is important to find a solution within a week".

"Johnson said he agreed with the timetable," Rinne added.

Dutch Prime Minister Mark Rutte tweeted that he had spoken with Johnson by phone and told him "important questions remain about the British proposals" and "there is a lot of work to be done ahead" of a crucial EU summit on October 17-18.

The British leader was expected to call the leaders of other EU countries in the wake of his proposals being given short shrift by Brussels after they were submitted Wednesday.&nbsp;

As they stand, "the UK proposals do not provide a basis for concluding an agreement," a European Commission spokeswoman underlined Friday.

Talks Friday between a top UK Brexit official, David Frost, and the EU team headed by top negotiator Michel Barnier broke up without progress.&nbsp;

They were to resume Monday, despite the UK having been keen for them to continue through the weekend.

Johnson on Saturday called his plan "a practical compromise that gives ground where necessary" but has also previously suggested it was a broad "landing zone" -- which to Brussels suggests he might yet budge on issues it finds unacceptable.

But in identical articles for the Brexit-backing British tabloids the Sunday Express and the Sun on Sunday, Johnson said the bloc now needed to show "its own willingness to do a deal that the UK Parliament can support".

"They should be under no illusions or misapprehensions," he added.&nbsp;

"There will be no more dither or delay. On October 31 we are going to get Brexit done."

A week's window

European diplomats say London needs to offer revised, viable proposals before the end of next week so any haggling and legalistic work is done before the summit, which will determine whether Britain is headed for an agreement, no-deal, or an extension.

The EU refuses to characterise the talks held so far as negotiations, preferring to resurrect a Brexit withdrawal agreement struck with Johnson's predecessor Theresa May that has been rejected three times by British MPs.

The main sticking point is a "backstop" for Northern Ireland that under the May agreement would have seen all the UK, or at least Northern Ireland, remaining in the EU's customs union.

It is meant to guarantee no border springs up between the British territory and EU member Ireland -- which would threaten the hard-won Good Friday peace accord -- while also maintaining the integrity of the EU's single market.

Britain's current idea for an alternative is for untried technology to remove the need for most but not all border checks, and for EU standards on goods to continue to apply in Northern Ireland to facilitate trade.

This border plan is not acceptable for the EU. It sees the potential for rampant smuggling, especially as Johnson intends for the rest of the UK to diverge from EU labour, environmental and tax norms to aim for a regulation-lite economy on Europe's doorstep.&nbsp;

"I made clear that the proposed solutions do not ensure the respect of the Good Friday Agreement, EU unity or the integrity of the single market," Ritte said.

Early UK elections possible

Nor does the EU agree with a proposal giving Northern Ireland's assembly an effective veto over the post-Brexit customs arrangement.

If Johnson does not alter those points, it is hard to see the EU moving talks into the negotiation phase.

Yet if he bends on them, Johnson risks losing tenuous support in the UK parliament to maybe pass a Brexit deal, reliant on 10 Democratic Unionist MPs from Northern Ireland and hard-core Brexit MPs in his Conservative Party.

If thwarted, Johnson's best bet may lie with early elections -- but those could only happen after the date he has said Brexit would happen.&nbsp;

There he also faces a challenge, with the UK parliament having passed a law requiring him to seek a Brexit extension from the EU by October 19 if he has not reached a deal by then.

British media speculation that Johnson might get Hungary to break EU ranks and prevent the required unanimity for an extension was denied by Budapest.

Hungary "was not approached to aid in vetoing a possible extension of Brexit," its foreign ministry said in a statement to AFP.

British Prime Minister Boris Johnson started phoning EU leaders Saturday to sell his proposals for a managed Brexit, but he met with pressure to revise his offer -- and to do so quickly.

British Prime Minister Boris Johnson started phoning EU leaders Saturday to sell his proposals for a managed Brexit, but he met with pressure to revise his offer -- and to do so quickly. Finnish counterpart Antti Rinne -- whose country currently holds the rotating presidency of the European Union -- said he told Johnson "it is important to find a solution within a week". "Johnson said he agreed with the timetable," Rinne added. Dutch Prime Minister Mark Rutte tweeted that he had spoken with Johnson by phone and told him "important questions remain about the British proposals" and "there is a lot of work to be done ahead" of a crucial EU summit on October 17-18. The British leader was expected to call the leaders of other EU countries in the wake of his proposals being given short shrift by Brussels after they were submitted Wednesday. As they stand, "the UK proposals do not provide a basis for concluding an agreement," a European Commission spokeswoman underlined Friday. Talks Friday between a top UK Brexit official, David Frost, and the EU team headed by top negotiator Michel Barnier broke up without progress. They were to resume Monday, despite the UK having been keen for them to continue through the weekend. Johnson on Saturday called his plan "a practical compromise that gives ground where necessary" but has also previously suggested it was a broad "landing zone" -- which to Brussels suggests he might yet budge on issues it finds unacceptable. But in identical articles for the Brexit-backing British tabloids the Sunday Express and the Sun on Sunday, Johnson said the bloc now needed to show "its own willingness to do a deal that the UK Parliament can support". "They should be under no illusions or misapprehensions," he added. "There will be no more dither or delay. On October 31 we are going to get Brexit done." A week's window European diplomats say London needs to offer revised, viable proposals before the end of next week so any haggling and legalistic work is done before the summit, which will determine whether Britain is headed for an agreement, no-deal, or an extension. The EU refuses to characterise the talks held so far as negotiations, preferring to resurrect a Brexit withdrawal agreement struck with Johnson's predecessor Theresa May that has been rejected three times by British MPs. The main sticking point is a "backstop" for Northern Ireland that under the May agreement would have seen all the UK, or at least Northern Ireland, remaining in the EU's customs union. It is meant to guarantee no border springs up between the British territory and EU member Ireland -- which would threaten the hard-won Good Friday peace accord -- while also maintaining the integrity of the EU's single market. Britain's current idea for an alternative is for untried technology to remove the need for most but not all border checks, and for EU standards on goods to continue to apply in Northern Ireland to facilitate trade. This border plan is not acceptable for the EU. It sees the potential for rampant smuggling, especially as Johnson intends for the rest of the UK to diverge from EU labour, environmental and tax norms to aim for a regulation-lite economy on Europe's doorstep. "I made clear that the proposed solutions do not ensure the respect of the Good Friday Agreement, EU unity or the integrity of the single market," Ritte said. Early UK elections possible Nor does the EU agree with a proposal giving Northern Ireland's assembly an effective veto over the post-Brexit customs arrangement. If Johnson does not alter those points, it is hard to see the EU moving talks into the negotiation phase. Yet if he bends on them, Johnson risks losing tenuous support in the UK parliament to maybe pass a Brexit deal, reliant on 10 Democratic Unionist MPs from Northern Ireland and hard-core Brexit MPs in his Conservative Party. If thwarted, Johnson's best bet may lie with early elections -- but those could only happen after the date he has said Brexit would happen. There he also faces a challenge, with the UK parliament having passed a law requiring him to seek a Brexit extension from the EU by October 19 if he has not reached a deal by then. British media speculation that Johnson might get Hungary to break EU ranks and prevent the required unanimity for an extension was denied by Budapest. Hungary "was not approached to aid in vetoing a possible extension of Brexit," its foreign ministry said in a statement to AFP.

European Union presses UK to resubmit Brexit plan as end-game looms

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

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

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

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

The European Union and Ireland said on Thursday that Prime Minister Boris Johnson's Brexit proposals were unlikely to yield a deal, with Dublin bluntly warning that Britain was heading towards a no-deal exit unless it made more concessions.

The European Union said it fully backed Ireland and that while it was open to discussions, it was still unconvinced about Johnson's plan - cast by British officials as the final offer to avert a no-deal Brexit on Oct. 31.

Just 28 days before the United Kingdom is due to leave the EU, both sides are positioning themselves to avoid blame for a delay or a disorderly no-deal Brexit.

Johnson says he wants an agreement but insists there can be no further Brexit postponement.

The cool reception from Brussels to Johnson's proposal indicates just how far apart the two sides are on the first departure of a sovereign state from the EU, which was forged from Europe's ruins after World War Two.

Irish Prime Minister Leo Varadkar, who is key to any possible deal, said he did not fully understand how the British proposals might work and that Dublin could not sign up to a treaty that did not safeguard an open Irish-British border.

Varadkar's deputy, Irish Foreign Minister Simon Coveney, went further, saying that if Johnson's proposals were final then a no-deal Brexit lay ahead.

"My judgement is that Boris Johnson does want a deal and that the paper that was published yesterday was an effort to move us in the direction of a deal. But...if that is the final proposal, there will be no deal," Coveney told parliament.

European Council President Donald Tusk said the bloc remained fully united behind Ireland.

"We remain open but still unconvinced," Tusk said. After speaking to Varadkar, European Commission President Jean-Claude Juncker said the proposal had a number of problematic issues.

Johnson made what his office said was his final Brexit pitch to the EU on Wednesday, offering a possible compromise on the most contentious issue that initially drew a cautious welcome by the EU.

Johnson went further than many expected on trying to solve the dilemma over the border between British-ruled Northern Ireland and EU member Ireland - with a proposal for an all-island regulatory zone to cover all goods. This would replace the so-called "backstop" arrangement he says he cannot accept.

Besides the concession, however, Johnson proposed giving Northern Ireland's institutions the ongoing power to abide by or exit the regulatory zone - a possible step too far for Ireland and the EU.

Johnson's Northern Irish allies poured scorn on their Irish neighbours for their negative reaction to Johnson's offer and said their stance paved the way for a no-deal exit.

"The proposal won't be amended," said Arlene Foster, the leader of the Democratic Unionist Party. "We are certainly moving into the territory of no-deal despite the fact that our prime minister has put forward a reasonable deal to the European Union.

'Can't fly'

While the EU was careful not to dismiss the British proposals outright, officials in Brussels were extremely cool about the move.

It can only be a starting point to more talks, according to officials and diplomats dealing with Brexit in EU hub Brussels.

"It does not contain any decent solution for customs. And it erects a hard border on the island of Ireland," said a senior EU official, saying the plan "can't fly" as it stands.

An EU diplomat said the plan would need to be fundamentally reworked to become acceptable. Time was short before EU leaders meet in Brussels on Oct. 17 and 18 for a make-or-break Brexit summit, the person said.

Amid so much pessimism about the possibility of a deal in just weeks, many diplomats say a phoney struggle is underway between London and Brussels to apportion responsibility for any failure.

Johnson, who has also tried unsuccessfully to hold an election, says he wants to strike a deal at the EU summit. But a law passed by his opponents in parliament forces him to delay Brexit unless he strikes a deal, something he says is "pointless and expensive".

While the divorce accord struck by Johnson's predecessor, Theresa May, was rejected three times by the British parliament, Johnson received cautious support on Thursday from many of the pro-Brexit Conservative lawmakers who helped defeat May's deal.

Steve Baker, the head of the influential eurosceptic European Research Group of Conservatives, described the government's proposals as "the possibility of a tolerable deal".

"While as I stand here today we are some way from a resolution, it is to the credit of our European friends that they have accepted the need to address these issues," Johnson told parliament.

"We have made a genuine attempt to bridge the chasm, to reconcile the apparently irreconcilable. And to go the extra mile as time runs short."

The European Union and Ireland said on Thursday that Prime Minister Boris Johnson's Brexit proposals were unlikely to yield a deal, with Dublin bluntly warning that Britain was heading towards a no-deal exit unless it made more concessions.

The European Union and Ireland said on Thursday that Prime Minister Boris Johnson's Brexit proposals were unlikely to yield a deal, with Dublin bluntly warning that Britain was heading towards a no-deal exit unless it made more concessions. The European Union said it fully backed Ireland and that while it was open to discussions, it was still unconvinced about Johnson's plan - cast by British officials as the final offer to avert a no-deal Brexit on Oct. 31. Just 28 days before the United Kingdom is due to leave the EU, both sides are positioning themselves to avoid blame for a delay or a disorderly no-deal Brexit. Johnson says he wants an agreement but insists there can be no further Brexit postponement. The cool reception from Brussels to Johnson's proposal indicates just how far apart the two sides are on the first departure of a sovereign state from the EU, which was forged from Europe's ruins after World War Two. Irish Prime Minister Leo Varadkar, who is key to any possible deal, said he did not fully understand how the British proposals might work and that Dublin could not sign up to a treaty that did not safeguard an open Irish-British border. Varadkar's deputy, Irish Foreign Minister Simon Coveney, went further, saying that if Johnson's proposals were final then a no-deal Brexit lay ahead. "My judgement is that Boris Johnson does want a deal and that the paper that was published yesterday was an effort to move us in the direction of a deal. But...if that is the final proposal, there will be no deal," Coveney told parliament. European Council President Donald Tusk said the bloc remained fully united behind Ireland. "We remain open but still unconvinced," Tusk said. After speaking to Varadkar, European Commission President Jean-Claude Juncker said the proposal had a number of problematic issues. Johnson made what his office said was his final Brexit pitch to the EU on Wednesday, offering a possible compromise on the most contentious issue that initially drew a cautious welcome by the EU. Johnson went further than many expected on trying to solve the dilemma over the border between British-ruled Northern Ireland and EU member Ireland - with a proposal for an all-island regulatory zone to cover all goods. This would replace the so-called "backstop" arrangement he says he cannot accept. Besides the concession, however, Johnson proposed giving Northern Ireland's institutions the ongoing power to abide by or exit the regulatory zone - a possible step too far for Ireland and the EU. Johnson's Northern Irish allies poured scorn on their Irish neighbours for their negative reaction to Johnson's offer and said their stance paved the way for a no-deal exit. "The proposal won't be amended," said Arlene Foster, the leader of the Democratic Unionist Party. "We are certainly moving into the territory of no-deal despite the fact that our prime minister has put forward a reasonable deal to the European Union. 'Can't fly' While the EU was careful not to dismiss the British proposals outright, officials in Brussels were extremely cool about the move. It can only be a starting point to more talks, according to officials and diplomats dealing with Brexit in EU hub Brussels. "It does not contain any decent solution for customs. And it erects a hard border on the island of Ireland," said a senior EU official, saying the plan "can't fly" as it stands. An EU diplomat said the plan would need to be fundamentally reworked to become acceptable. Time was short before EU leaders meet in Brussels on Oct. 17 and 18 for a make-or-break Brexit summit, the person said. Amid so much pessimism about the possibility of a deal in just weeks, many diplomats say a phoney struggle is underway between London and Brussels to apportion responsibility for any failure. Johnson, who has also tried unsuccessfully to hold an election, says he wants to strike a deal at the EU summit. But a law passed by his opponents in parliament forces him to delay Brexit unless he strikes a deal, something he says is "pointless and expensive". While the divorce accord struck by Johnson's predecessor, Theresa May, was rejected three times by the British parliament, Johnson received cautious support on Thursday from many of the pro-Brexit Conservative lawmakers who helped defeat May's deal. Steve Baker, the head of the influential eurosceptic European Research Group of Conservatives, described the government's proposals as "the possibility of a tolerable deal". "While as I stand here today we are some way from a resolution, it is to the credit of our European friends that they have accepted the need to address these issues," Johnson told parliament. "We have made a genuine attempt to bridge the chasm, to reconcile the apparently irreconcilable. And to go the extra mile as time runs short."

EU and Ireland sceptical of a Brexit breakthrough after PM Johnson's offer

EU and UK officials are to resume talks Monday on Britain's plans for a managed Brexit after a weekend hiatus during which London was under pressure to revise its proposals.

EU and UK officials are to resume talks Monday on Britain's plans for a managed Brexit after a weekend hiatus during which London was under pressure to revise its proposals. The European Commission is adamant that, as they stand, "the UK proposals do not provide a basis for concluding an agreement". That grates with Britain's government, which considers the proposals it submitted on Wednesday to be "a fair and reasonable compromise". After hours-long talks in Brussels on Friday failed to move the dial, a UK spokesman said: "We want a deal and talks continue on Monday on the basis of our offer." Time is running short for the two sides to close the gap. British Prime Minister Boris Johnson is determined to take his country out of the the European Union at the end of this month. An October 17-18 EU summit is to determine whether Britain is headed for a Brexit deal, no-deal, or an extension. A week's window But European diplomats emphasise that London needs to offer revised, viable proposals within days and certainly before the end of next week, so any haggling and legalistic work is done before the summit. "Everything must move very quickly and any negotiation has to start at the beginning of next week," one diplomat told. "We will evaluate next Friday whether it's been possible to bring the positions closer." Although Johnson has called his Brexit proposals a broad "landing zone" the EU's chief negotiator, Michel Barnier, and his team are unsure how far Britain will budge. The EU refuses to characterise the talks held so far as negotiations, underlining a preference to stick with a Brexit withdrawal agreement that was struck with Johnson's predecessor Theresa May but rejected three times by British MPs. 'Backstop' headache The main sticking point is a "backstop" for Northern Ireland. That is meant to guarantee no border springs up between the British territory and EU member Ireland, threatening a hard-won peace accord, while also maintaining the integrity of the EU's single market. Britain's current idea for an alternative to the backstop -- which would see all the UK, or at least Northern Ireland, remaining in the EU's customs union -- is for untried technology to remove the need for most but not all border checks, and for EU standards on goods to continue to apply in Northern Ireland to facilitate trade. The border plan is not acceptable for the EU. It sees the potential for rampant smuggling, especially as Johnson intends for the rest of the UK to diverge from EU labour, environmental and tax norms to aim for a regulation-lite economy on Europe's doorstep. Nor does the EU agree with a proposal that Northern Ireland's assembly be given a right to effectively veto the post-Brexit customs arrangement. If either of those two proposals are red lines for Johnson, it is hard to see the EU moving talks into the negotiation phase. Yet if he bends on them, he risks losing tenuous support in the UK parliament to maybe pass a Brexit deal, reliant on 10 Democratic Unionist MPs from Northern Ireland and hard-core Brexit MPs in his Conservative Party. Extension option If thwarted, Johnson's best bet may lie with early elections. There he also faces a challenge, with the UK parliament having passed a law requiring him to seek a Brexit extension from the EU by October 19 if he has not reached a deal by then. British media speculated that Johnson might seek to sabotage any extension request he is forced to make against his will. One path included his ministers asking an EU member state to block the unanimous approval needed for an extension, with Hungary cited as a likely ally to break EU ranks. But Budapest denied Britain had approached it with such a request, and a Hungarian foreign ministry source told AFP: "To date there is no request for a delay, hence there is no point in speculating about anything."

EU presses UK to resubmit Brexit plan as end-game looms

US lawmakers have requested information from Apple critic Spotify as part of an antitrust probe, according to two sources briefed on the investigation into allegations the iPhone maker engages in anti-competitive behavior to support its own apps.

The <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-supreme-court-agrees-to-hear-case-on-restrictive-abortion-law-253858">US</a> House of Representatives Judiciary Committee reached out to the music streaming service with broad requests for information, according to one source, who added the request to the company was narrowed in follow up telephone calls.

Spotify Technology SA filed an antitrust complaint against Apple in the European Union in March, but the contact with the committee marks its first known participation in congressional inquiries into the iPhone maker, whose Apple Music streaming service is Spotify's biggest rival.

Spotify and other developers have alleged that Apple engages in anticompetitive behavior by imposing rules that hamper distribution via its App Store, the only way for third-party developers to reach more than 900 million iPhone users.

At the same time, Apple sometimes copies the features of their apps for its own offerings, developers have said. Multiple apps in the App Store offered female cycle tracking before Apple added the same feature to its own health tracking app this fall, for example.

Spotify has been pressing for antitrust action against Apple for several years.

Its representatives have met with Justice Department officials, as well as members of the FTC's Technology Task Force, a group of some 17 attorneys that was set up in February to focus on online platforms and other Internet competition issues, according to one source.

App developers also complain that Apple's Siri, which response to verbal commands and can control Apple's own apps, has long had limited functionality with the vast majority of non-Apple apps, including Spotify.

Apple announced an update to its software in June that would allow Siri to access Spotify and other music services.

Beyond Spotify, the congressional probe has tapped many companies for details on the four big tech firms.

In addition to the Judiciary Committee probe, the big tech companies face a plethora of other antitrust investigations.

The Justice Department is probing Alphabet's Google, Facebook, and Apple while the Federal Trade Commission is investigating <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/paypal-abandons-facebook-backed-libra-cryptocurrency-group-253843">Facebook</a> and Amazon.com. Groups of state attorneys general have also been formed to probe <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/google-cant-escape-copyright-laws-frances-emmanuel-macron-253863">Google</a> and Facebook.

Spotify has complained also about the 30 per cent fee that Apple charges outside app developers who sell so-called digital goods such as music or e-books on the App Store, using Apple's in-app billing system. Apple bars app makers for collecting payment any other way on the App Store or showing users links or buttons to other ways to pay.

At one point, Apple told Spotify to stop sending emails to users who had just signed up for a free version of its streaming music prompting them to upgrade to the paid service, Spotify has said. Spotify has said the shifting rules, and Apple's threats to block routine app updates, have made it difficult to compete with Apple's own music service on a level playing field.

Asked for comment, Apple referred to its previous responses, published in March, to Spotify's claims. The company says it enforces its App Store rules evenly among all developers and that more than eight out of every 10 apps are free and pay nothing to Apple. Apple has said Spotify pays nothing for users of its free service or for paid Spotify members who signed up outside the App Store.

Apple has said Spotify pays a revenue share on about half a per cent of its 108 million premium users, paying 15 per cent&nbsp;fees on roughly 680,000 customers that Spotify acquired between 2014 and 2016 when it used Apple's payment systems.

US lawmakers have requested information from Apple critic Spotify as part of an antitrust probe, according to two sources briefed on the investigation into allegations the iPhone maker engages in anti-competitive behavior to support its own apps.

US lawmakers have requested information from Apple critic Spotify as part of an antitrust probe, according to two sources briefed on the investigation into allegations the iPhone maker engages in anti-competitive behavior to support its own apps. The US House of Representatives Judiciary Committee reached out to the music streaming service with broad requests for information, according to one source, who added the request to the company was narrowed in follow up telephone calls. Spotify Technology SA filed an antitrust complaint against Apple in the European Union in March, but the contact with the committee marks its first known participation in congressional inquiries into the iPhone maker, whose Apple Music streaming service is Spotify's biggest rival. Spotify and other developers have alleged that Apple engages in anticompetitive behavior by imposing rules that hamper distribution via its App Store, the only way for third-party developers to reach more than 900 million iPhone users. At the same time, Apple sometimes copies the features of their apps for its own offerings, developers have said. Multiple apps in the App Store offered female cycle tracking before Apple added the same feature to its own health tracking app this fall, for example. Spotify has been pressing for antitrust action against Apple for several years. Its representatives have met with Justice Department officials, as well as members of the FTC's Technology Task Force, a group of some 17 attorneys that was set up in February to focus on online platforms and other Internet competition issues, according to one source. App developers also complain that Apple's Siri, which response to verbal commands and can control Apple's own apps, has long had limited functionality with the vast majority of non-Apple apps, including Spotify. Apple announced an update to its software in June that would allow Siri to access Spotify and other music services. Beyond Spotify, the congressional probe has tapped many companies for details on the four big tech firms. In addition to the Judiciary Committee probe, the big tech companies face a plethora of other antitrust investigations. The Justice Department is probing Alphabet's Google, Facebook, and Apple while the Federal Trade Commission is investigating Facebook and Amazon.com. Groups of state attorneys general have also been formed to probe Google and Facebook. Spotify has complained also about the 30 per cent fee that Apple charges outside app developers who sell so-called digital goods such as music or e-books on the App Store, using Apple's in-app billing system. Apple bars app makers for collecting payment any other way on the App Store or showing users links or buttons to other ways to pay. At one point, Apple told Spotify to stop sending emails to users who had just signed up for a free version of its streaming music prompting them to upgrade to the paid service, Spotify has said. Spotify has said the shifting rules, and Apple's threats to block routine app updates, have made it difficult to compete with Apple's own music service on a level playing field. Asked for comment, Apple referred to its previous responses, published in March, to Spotify's claims. The company says it enforces its App Store rules evenly among all developers and that more than eight out of every 10 apps are free and pay nothing to Apple. Apple has said Spotify pays nothing for users of its free service or for paid Spotify members who signed up outside the App Store. Apple has said Spotify pays a revenue share on about half a per cent of its 108 million premium users, paying 15 per cent fees on roughly 680,000 customers that Spotify acquired between 2014 and 2016 when it used Apple's payment systems.

Antitrust probers in Congress ask Spotify to detail alleged Apple abuses: Sources

Ten people were killed and seven injured on Saturday when a lorry collided with a minibus in eastern Romania, the country with the highest level of road deaths in the European Union, police said.

Nine of the 16 people on the minibus and the driver of the truck died in the accident, one of the most serious in the country where the poor state of the roads is a concern for motorists.

Of the seven injured, four are in serious condition, secretary of state for the interior Raed Arafat said.

Some 40 firefighters were at the scene of the accident, which forced the closure of the road linking the towns of Slobozia and Urziceni, according to the department for emergency services.

Romania holds the record in the European Union for the highest level of deaths from road accidents, with 96 fatalities per one million inhabitants in 2018 compared to an average of 49 among all 28 EU nations.

Ten people were killed and seven injured on Saturday when a lorry collided with a minibus in eastern Romania, the country with the highest level of road deaths in the European Union, police said.

Ten people were killed and seven injured on Saturday when a lorry collided with a minibus in eastern Romania, the country with the highest level of road deaths in the European Union, police said. Nine of the 16 people on the minibus and the driver of the truck died in the accident, one of the most serious in the country where the poor state of the roads is a concern for motorists. Of the seven injured, four are in serious condition, secretary of state for the interior Raed Arafat said. Some 40 firefighters were at the scene of the accident, which forced the closure of the road linking the towns of Slobozia and Urziceni, according to the department for emergency services. Romania holds the record in the European Union for the highest level of deaths from road accidents, with 96 fatalities per one million inhabitants in 2018 compared to an average of 49 among all 28 EU nations.

Ten killed in minibus-lorry collision in Romania

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