Brexit will weaken Europe, isolate Britain and fuel global tensions

Leave aside the particulars of this month’s Brexit drama — Theresa May’s dance moves, Boris Johnson’s attacks on May’s plan, and the latest warnings from European capitals — it’s time to brace for Brexit. Let’s focus on the few geopolitical certainties we know will follow the UK’s exit from the European Union, on whatever terms it comes.

Start across the Atlantic. Brexit won’t do the “special relationship” between the US and Europe any favors. An EU without the UK is a much weaker partner for Washington when US-EU interests align and a much weaker foil when those interests collide.