Brexit after Brexit: The transition period is nearing its end, with no signs of an agreement

(Patria) – President of the European Council of EU leaders Charles Michel called for de-escalation of tensions in the transition period of post-Brexit trade negotiations, warning the United Kingdom that 'leaving the club' carries 'consequences'.

Namely, a little earlier, British Prime Minister Boris Johnson threatened to withdraw the United Kingdom from negotiations on future relations with the EU if an agreement is not reached by mid-October. The transition period officially expires on December 31.

The United Kingdom's obligation under the Northern Ireland Protocol, as one of the points of the Brexit agreement, has also been called into question following reports that the British government plans new legislation that annuls existing terms.

When asked by a Euronews journalist if the United Kingdom is still a trusted partner, Charles Michel replied: 'Let's stay calm... based on experience from Belgium, I can say that every negotiation is a difficult process, especially Brexit. We have given a clear mandate, we have confidence in Michel Barnier, we will take the next steps in the coming days and weeks,' Michel is optimistic.

He emphasized that the EU will focus on 'the substance', and that a level playing field for both negotiating parties is the top priority for the European Union.

The two negotiating parties still fail to agree on issues of state aid and fishing rights.

British Brexit negotiator David Frost stated on Tuesday that the EU must be 'more realistic about the status of the United Kingdom as an independent country' in negotiations on a future relationship with Europe.

- I will talk to Michel Barnier to convey our clear message that we must make progress this week to reach an agreement on time, Frost said, explaining that Britain has listened carefully to the EU and has shown flexibility in negotiations, and is preparing for a no-deal exit on December 31 if the EU does not make progress in the negotiations.

Let us remind you that during the transition period, which expires at the end of the year, the United Kingdom remains within the EU's economic orbit, where it still enjoys the benefits of tariff-free trade.

If the United Kingdom leaves the negotiating table or in case of a breakdown in negotiations, the ultimate outcome is a no-deal relationship, which, among other things, means the introduction of tariffs on trade as early as next year.