The White House confirmed that President Donald Trump had been exploring various options, including potential military involvement, regarding the acquisition of Greenland from Denmark. The statement, released Tuesday, followed a joint declaration from European leaders supporting Denmark's rejection of Trump's pursuit of the Arctic island.

According to the White House, acquiring Greenland, a semi-autonomous territory of Denmark and a NATO ally, was considered a "national security priority." The administration asserted that the president, as Commander-in-Chief, always has the option of utilizing the U.S. military to achieve foreign policy objectives.

Trump reiterated over the weekend that the U.S. "needed" Greenland for security reasons. Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen responded by warning that any attack by the U.S. would effectively dissolve NATO.

The notion of the United States acquiring Greenland is not new. In 1946, the U.S. offered Denmark $100 million to purchase the island, an offer that was declined. Greenland's strategic location has long been of interest to the U.S. military, particularly during the Cold War. Thule Air Base, located in Greenland, is the U.S. Air Force's northernmost base and houses a Ballistic Missile Early Warning System.

The BBC reported the White House statement came hours after European leaders issued their joint statement backing Denmark. The situation highlights the complex geopolitical dynamics in the Arctic region, where several nations, including Russia, China, and Canada, are vying for influence and resources.

The Danish government has consistently maintained that Greenland is not for sale. Greenland possesses significant natural resources, including minerals, oil, and gas, which are becoming more accessible due to climate change and the melting of Arctic ice.

The White House has not specified which military options were under consideration. The discussions are ongoing, and the future course of action remains uncertain.