"We understand that there was a recent change in the way the diplomatic precedence list is implemented by the United States' protocol," a Commission spokeswoman told a briefing, declining to give more details. "We are currently discussing with the relevant services in the administration possible implications for the EU delegation in Washington." Two other EU diplomats confirmed the downgrade, with one saying it was unlikely the bloc would retaliate given its desire for good relations. Trump has often shown his disdain for the EU and has backed Britain's planned departure from the bloc. Trump withdrew from several international agreements backed by the EU and vowed to reform "the liberal international order" he says the bloc helps underpin.

Source: bd News24 January 08, 2019 14:03 UTC