In a recent podcast interview with The Economist, Finnish President Alexander Stubb reflected on the lasting effects of the Greenland dispute on international relations, stating it has left 'scars' on transatlantic ties. He believes that the current period of uncertainty will last for about five years, emphasizing the need to remain calm in the face of international turmoil. Stubb's comments highlight a significant shift in U.S. foreign policy under President Donald Trump, where national interests have taken precedence over the traditional role of the U.S. as a leader in promoting liberal internationalism and global cooperation.

Stubb also expressed concerns about the implications of this shift for Europe. He noted that while he had previously believed that Western nations would uphold a liberal world order, the reality today suggests that Europe and other actors may need to step into leadership roles previously held by the U.S. He pointed out that the dispute over Greenland has acted as a particularly harsh blow to transatlantic relations, bringing to light the fragility of alliances and cooperation among Western nations in light of changing political landscapes.

This discussion comes at a critical time when global power dynamics are being reevaluated. As Europe faces the consequential impacts of its relationships with the U.S. and other global players, the call for a reassessment of leadership within the West is becoming ever more pressing. The scars left by the Greenland dispute could serve as a catalyst for a broader debate about the future of international relations and cooperation among Western countries.