Staff Reports
In a surprising twist of international rhetoric, French politician Raphaël Glucksmann has called for the United States to return the Statue of Liberty, claiming America no longer embodies the values of democracy and freedom that the iconic monument represents. Glucksmann, a member of the European Parliament and co-leader of the left-wing Place Publique party, made his comments during a rally in Paris. His remarks have ignited controversy and drawn sharp rebukes from American officials, including White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt, who dismissed the suggestion outright.
Glucksmann’s argument hinges on his belief that recent U.S. policies under former President Donald Trump have betrayed democratic ideals. He accused America of “aligning with tyrants” and undermining scientific freedom, citing cuts to research funding and perceived authoritarian tendencies in foreign policy. While his comments were largely symbolic, they reflect broader European unease with Trump-era policies. Glucksmann declared, “We gave [the Statue of Liberty] to you as a gift, but you despise her. She will be better off here at home.” Despite his fiery rhetoric, Glucksmann admitted that reclaiming the statue is practically impossible, as it is owned by the U.S. government and serves as a national landmark.
The White House response was swift and unapologetic. Press Secretary Leavitt reminded Glucksmann that it was American intervention during World War II that ensured France’s survival as an independent nation. “It’s only because of the United States that the French are not speaking German right now,” she quipped, underscoring the sacrifices made by American soldiers to liberate France from Nazi occupation. This historical reality serves as a powerful counterpoint to Glucksmann’s critique, highlighting America’s enduring role in defending freedom worldwide.
Glucksmann’s comments also raise questions about the nature of gratitude and historical perspective in international relations. The Statue of Liberty was gifted by France in 1886 to commemorate America’s centennial and shared commitment to liberty. Yet, critics argue that Glucksmann’s demands disregard the collaborative effort behind its creation—France funded the statue while Americans financed its pedestal—symbolizing mutual respect between two nations. Calls for its return seem to trivialize this legacy and overlook America’s contributions to global freedom.
This episode underscores the growing divide between European progressives and American conservatives over issues like foreign policy and cultural values. While Glucksmann’s remarks resonate with his left-leaning base, they appear disconnected from historical realities and current geopolitical dynamics. The Statue of Liberty remains not just an emblem of American freedom but a testament to Franco-American friendship—a relationship that has weathered far greater storms than partisan disagreements over policy.
