, Columnist
Macron and Merkel Get the Least Bad Brexit Option
The EU’s treaty with the U.K. isn’t a “win,” but it avoids a messy divorce and gives the bloc leverage for the future.
Some are less ready to rejoice.
Photographer: Anadolu Agency/AnadoluThis article is for subscribers only.
The defining image of Britain’s Christmas Eve trade deal with the European Union was a beaming Boris Johnson with his thumbs up in the air. There were no celebratory pictures from any of his continental counterparts.
Getting to this point is a win in itself for the U.K. An end to Brexit’s drama should let the Brits reenter a more breathable political atmosphere after almost five years talking about nothing else — other than Covid-19. Avoiding a messy “no deal” will save the economy from a long-term shock that might have cost 3% of gross domestic product. Even Nigel Farage is pleased.