Readers respond as European politicians warn of the consequences of British attempts to “blackmail and divide” EU countries

'The UK is deluded': readers on the Brexit negotiations

Is Britain headed for a disastrous “crash landing” out of the European Union? This is the view of some European politicians concerned at the UK’s “divide and rule” tactics ahead of formal Brexit talks.

A leaked European parliament report seen by the Guardian accuses Britain of trying to “move the goalposts and do away with the referee” in the impending negotiations with the EU27 nations.

Divide and rule tactics could leave UK without deal, say EU politicians Read more

Guardian readers in Britain and across the EU discussed the negotiating positions and “red lines” likely to dominate once article 50 is triggered - with many doubting the process would end successfully for either side.



Below is a selection of their views.



The UK government has failed to manage expectations



The EU will hope for the best and prepare for the worst



Facebook Twitter Pinterest Sweden’s ministry for Foreign Affairs Ann Linde and British Brexit secretary David Davis. Photograph: Maja Suslin/AFP/Getty Images

May will talk tough but negotiate for a soft Brexit



The UK is deluded about the strength of its negotiating position

The EU can ignore all the sound and fury

Brexit shows the EU must change to survive

Forget a second referendum, we need a general election



‘We will crash out with no deal’