CNBC takes a look at five key takeaways from the White House showdown. For some, the White House talks did achieve something significant. The U.S., Denmark and Greenland agreed to establish a high-level working group to try to determine a way forward for the self-governing Danish territory.

After the meeting, Denmark's foreign minister said they're eager to work with the U.S. while respecting the "red lines of the Kingdom of Denmark."