A French political figure has sparked debate by urging the United States to send back the Statue of Liberty, alleging that certain Americans are disregarding the principles it embodies.
Raphael Glucksmann, a representative for the minor leftist group Public Space in the European Parliament, voiced these comments at a gathering on Sunday. He criticized what he saw as a change in America’s strategic orientation.
“Give us back the Statue of Liberty,” said Glucksmann. “It was our gift to you. But apparently, you despise her.”
The famous monument presented by France in 1886 was meant to embody freedom and the bond of friendship between the two countries. Created as an image of Libertas—the Roman goddess of freedom—the statue carries a torch and a plaque marked with the date of the United States' Declaration of Independence. Hidden beneath her robes are discarded chains, representing liberation from tyranny.
In response to Glucksmann’s comments, White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt delivered a pointed rebuke on Monday.
"My message for this unidentified junior French political figure would be to recall that their ability to speak French rather than German today is due solely to the United States of America. Therefore, they ought to express deep gratitude toward our magnificent nation," she stated.
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He emphasised that his gratitude to the US “heroes” that fought against the Nazis in WWII is “eternal,” before making a contrast with US President Donald Trump’s recent attempts to negotiate a settlement between Russia and Ukraine, as well as Trump’s public spat with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky.
"The America revered by these heroes stood up to tyrants instead of flattering them. It opposed fascism rather than supporting Putin. It aided the resistance movements and did not target Zelensky," he penned.
"It is exactly due to my fear of Trump’s betrayal that I stated at yesterday's rally that we might metaphorically reclaim the Statue of Liberty if your administration disregards what it represents—to us, you, and people around the globe," Glucksmann said.
“Of course, nobody will come to take away the Statue of Liberty. The statue is yours. However, what it represents belongs to everybody,” he stated.
And if the free world ceases to interest your government, we will pick up the torch right here in Europe.
Glucksmann, who co-directs Place Publique, has attracted increasing notice from the French media even though his party remains politically marginal. In a recent extensive interview with Le NouvelObs, he highlighted the importance of Europe assuming more control over its defense capabilities amid changes in U.S. foreign policy.
There is growing speculation about a potential presidential run by Glucksmann in the 2027 elections.
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