The Latest: Estonia's premier: Brexit mustn't paralyze EU

Juri Ratas says that "we accept this notice with regret in our hearts," adding the priority "is to reduce the insecurity of the people and companies that could be influenced by the United Kingdom's withdrawal."

In a separate statement, the Estonian government said that triggering Article 50 ended "uncertainty on the U.K.'s intentions on leaving the EU and the exit's timeframe."

French centrist presidential candidate Emmanuel Macron says his priority after Britain's formal request to leave the European Union would be to protect the bloc and European interests.

The diplomat, who wasn't authorized to be quoted by name, dismissed such views Wednesday, noting that Britain will have to grapple with the fallout from its departure from the EU's single market.

European Union Council President Donald Tusk says he will have a proposal for a negotiating mandate ready for the member states by Friday, only two days after Britain triggered the negotiating mandate for divorce proceedings.

Germany's foreign minister says that the phrase "Let's stay friends" should be a motto for the divorce proceedings between Britain and the European Union.

The European Union's top official says that "we already miss you," moments after he received the official letter from British Prime Minister Theresa May triggering Brexit talks.

British Prime Minister Theresa May offered a polite and conciliatory statement in the letter to the European Union triggering Brexit talks.

The British leader offered a wish that Europe remain "strong and prosperous," and capable of defending itself from security threats.

Denmark's prime minister says Britain's "goodbye" to the European Union is "incredibly sad," adding he expects "many bumps on the road."

The head of the European Parliament's biggest political bloc says Britain's decision to leave the European Union is a mistake that will damage the U.K. and the EU.

[...] he said the parliament will respect th