With time running out for the EU and the UK to reach a Brexit compromise, some try to create the illusion that a such a compromise is imminent. This is very inaccurate and misleading. While both sides are entangled in negotiations in order to resolve what currently appears to be the biggest problem, the Irish border, even a compromise is far off. While officials acknowledge that some progress has been made, they warn that obstacles remain before a compromise may be reached.

The EU has warmed up to more compromise in order to avoid a no-deal Brexit. Even Michel Barnier, the top EU negotiator and the EU’s version of Jeremy Corbyn, sounded more open to strike a deal over the next six to eight weeks. A conference is scheduled for mid-November where a potential Brexit deal between the EU and the UK could be signed. Then there is the issue of the Irish border which many claim is the last obstacle to a Brexit deal.