Britain chose independence. Brussels needs to get over it.
Brussels has demanded billions for British participation in its defence programme, while costly trade barriers hold back businesses on both sides of the Channel. Europe’s security and prosperity should not be held hostage to petty grievances and attempts to punish Britain for leaving the EU.
Britain is one of Europe’s largest economies, a nuclear power and a leading NATO ally. It deserves to be treated as a sovereign partner. Does Brussels want a strong partnership with an independent Britain, or does it want Britain to come crawling back?
Brexit was a democratic decision. It is time Brussels respected it, dropped the grudge and put cooperation ahead of punishment.