In a surprising diplomatic twist, French politician Raphaël Glucksmann has publicly called for the United States to return the Statue of Liberty to France. The iconic monument, gifted by France nearly 140 years ago as a symbol of friendship and shared values, now stands at the center of a heated international debate.
France’s Demand: A Symbolic Message
Raphaël Glucksmann, a member of the European Parliament and co-leader of France’s left-wing party Place Publique, ignited controversy during a recent speech. He argued passionately that the United States under President Donald Trump no longer embodies the ideals that inspired France to gift the statue originally.
“Return the Statue of Liberty to us,” Glucksmann declared at a party convention. “We gave it to you as a gift, but apparently you despise it. So it will be just fine here at home.” He criticized Americans who, in his view, “have chosen to side with tyrants” and condemned recent U.S. policy changes that have led to dismissals of researchers advocating scientific freedom3.
Glucksmann further emphasized his point by addressing America’s recent cuts in federal research funding under Trump’s administration, which he claims undermine America’s global leadership in innovation and science. He also extended an invitation to dismissed American researchers: “If you want to fire your best researchers… then we’re going to welcome them”3.
White House Responds: “Absolutely Not”
The White House swiftly dismissed the French politician’s demand. Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt responded unequivocally during Monday’s press briefing when asked about returning the statue: “Absolutely not.” Leavitt further advised Glucksmann to recall historical alliances, stating pointedly, “They should remember that it is solely due to the United States that the French are not currently speaking German. Therefore, they ought to express gratitude towards our nation”24.
Ownership and Diplomatic Implications
Despite Glucksmann’s passionate rhetoric and symbolic demand, practical considerations make France reclaiming the Statue of Liberty highly improbable. UNESCO recognizes the statue as United States government property and lists it among its World Heritage sites. The monument was initially intended as a gesture commemorating America’s centennial independence celebration in 18761.
Moreover, diplomatic experts warn that any unilateral attempt by France to regain possession could severely strain diplomatic relations between Paris and Washington—relations already delicate due to ongoing geopolitical tensions involving Russia and Ukraine4.
Cultural and Historical Context
The Statue of Liberty was unveiled in New York Harbor on October 28, 1886. Designed by French sculptor Auguste Bartholdi, it symbolizes freedom and democracy and has become one of America’s most cherished landmarks3. While Paris does possess a smaller replica on an island in the Seine River, the original remains an irreplaceable symbol deeply embedded in American identity.
As this debate unfolds, observers note that Glucksmann’s remarks reflect broader European unease regarding recent shifts in U.S. domestic and foreign policies under President Trump1. However symbolic this call may be, it underscores growing international concerns about America’s global role and commitment to shared democratic values.
Sources:
- AP News:
“Return the Statue of Liberty to us,” Glucksmann declared while addressing supporters of his Public Place party. “It was our present to you. But evidently, you hold her in contempt.” - The Hill:
White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt stated unequivocally, “Absolutely not,” when asked about sending the statue back during a daily press briefing. - Fortune:
“We gave it to you as a gift, but apparently you despise it. So it will be just fine here at home,” Glucksmann added. - Politico:
“I would advise that unnamed low-ranking French politician to remember that it is solely due to the United States that the French are not currently speaking German,” said White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt.
Citations:
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- https://www.fox5ny.com/news/raphael-glucksmann-statue-liberty-back
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