French Politician Calls for Return of Statue of Liberty, US Dismisses Remarks
Washington: A heated diplomatic exchange unfolded after French politician Raphael Glucksmann suggested that France should reclaim the Statue of Liberty, arguing that the United States no longer embodies the ideals that inspired France to gift the monument. His remarks, viewed as a pointed critique of US President Donald Trump’s policies, have sparked a sharp response from the White House.
🚨Politicians in France are asking for the Statue of Liberty BACK.
Karoline Leavitt chose VIOLENCE:
“I would like to remind France that it’s only because of the USA that the French are not speaking German right now. So they should be very grateful to our great country”
WOW. pic.twitter.com/PuG864VYj1
— Benny Johnson (@bennyjohnson) March 17, 2025
A Symbolic Gift Now at the Center of Debate
The Statue of Liberty, a globally recognized symbol of freedom and democracy, was gifted by France and unveiled in New York Harbor in 1886 to mark the centennial of the American Declaration of Independence. Created by French sculptor Auguste Bartholdi, the monument was a gesture of shared democratic values between the two nations.
However, Glucksmann, a centre-left politician, recently remarked that given America’s changing stance on global affairs, scientific freedom, and democracy, France should reclaim the statue. He accused the Trump administration of aligning with authoritarian regimes and restricting scientific freedoms by allegedly silencing researchers.
Glucksmann’s Controversial Statement
In a strong statement, Glucksmann criticized the US, saying that if the country no longer values liberty and democracy, then France should take back the statue. His remarks were seen as a reaction to Trump’s foreign policy decisions and the administration’s handling of international relations.
He directly addressed the issue, stating that France gifted the monument to America in good faith, but if the US no longer upholds those principles, it should be returned home.
White House Responds with Historical Reference
The statement prompted an immediate and stern response from the White House. Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt dismissed Glucksmann’s remarks as politically motivated and lacking historical perspective. She pointed out that without American intervention in World War II, France would have suffered Nazi occupation much longer, implying that the country owes its modern freedom to US support.
Her remarks underscored America’s historical role in defending democracy globally, an argument frequently invoked in diplomatic disputes involving European allies.
Political Motives Behind the Controversy?
While Glucksmann’s statement was widely perceived as symbolic, it reflects growing European criticism of Trump’s policies. The French politician has been a vocal critic of the US President, particularly in the context of the war in Ukraine and shifting US foreign policy priorities.
Beyond his critique of the Trump administration, Glucksmann has also targeted far-right political figures in France, accusing them of aligning with Trump and billionaire Elon Musk. He has consistently opposed policies that he believes undermine international cooperation, scientific progress, and democratic values.
France and the US: A Complex Diplomatic Relationship
Despite the diplomatic tension surrounding Glucksmann’s remarks, experts believe this episode is more about political posturing than an actual demand for the statue’s return. While Paris does have a smaller replica of the Statue of Liberty, the original monument remains deeply rooted in American identity.
This latest dispute highlights the evolving nature of transatlantic relations, with Europe increasingly questioning US leadership on global issues. Whether this controversy will impact broader diplomatic ties remains to be seen.
Key Takeaways:
- French politician Raphael Glucksmann suggested France reclaim the Statue of Liberty, citing concerns over US policies.
- The White House dismissed the claim, stating that France owes its freedom to US intervention in World War II.
- Glucksmann’s remarks reflect broader European criticism of Trump’s administration, particularly on issues like scientific freedom and Ukraine.
- While the statement is largely symbolic, it underscores tensions in US-French relations in the current political climate.
As diplomatic exchanges continue, it is clear that symbols of democracy hold as much weight in political rhetoric as they do in historical significance. Whether this incident remains a brief controversy or escalates into a deeper diplomatic discussion will depend on how both governments navigate the situation.
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