U.S. President Donald Trump has indicated that he may use direct military force to take control of autonomous Greenland, according to an AFP report from Washington on Tuesday. The White House described the move as a national security priority, saying military measures could be taken if necessary. The statement is expected to heighten tensions between the United States and Denmark, a NATO ally.

Following military intervention in Venezuela, Trump has turned his attention to the Arctic territory, citing its rare minerals and strategic importance as melting ice opens new sea routes. White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt said controlling Greenland is vital to counter rivals such as Russia and China, and that the president keeps all military options open.

Greenland and Denmark have called for urgent talks to ease tensions, while European nations including Britain, France, Germany, Italy, Poland, and Spain have voiced support for Denmark’s sovereignty. Greenland’s Prime Minister Jens-Frederik Nielsen reaffirmed that the island is not for sale and that only its people can decide their future.