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• A French politician, Raphaël Glucksmann, has called for the U.S. to return the Statue of Liberty, arguing the U.S. no longer represents the values it was gifted for.
• Glucksmann’s comments reflect broader European concerns over U.S. policy shifts under President Trump.
• The White House has firmly rejected the request, emphasizing the statue’s historical and cultural significance to the U.S.

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2-Minute Digest

Essential Context

Raphaël Glucksmann, a member of the European Parliament and co-president of the French left-wing party Public Place, has sparked controversy by suggesting the U.S. return the Statue of Liberty. Glucksmann argues that the U.S. no longer aligns with the values of freedom and democracy that the statue symbolizes.

Core Players

• Raphaël Glucksmann – French politician, member of the European Parliament, and co-president of Public Place.
• Donald Trump – President of the United States, whose policies have been criticized by Glucksmann.
• Emmanuel Macron – President of France, who is navigating a delicate relationship with the U.S.
• Karoline Leavitt – White House press secretary, who rejected Glucksmann’s request.

Key Numbers

• 1886: The year the Statue of Liberty was officially unveiled in New York City.
• 350: The number of pieces the statue was transported in from France.
• 450,000 pounds: The weight of the Statue of Liberty.
• 305 feet: The height of the Statue of Liberty.

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The Catalyst

Glucksmann’s call to return the Statue of Liberty was made during a speech to his party supporters. He emphasized that the statue was a gift from France to the U.S. to commemorate the 100th anniversary of the U.S. Declaration of Independence and symbolize the friendship between the two nations.

“Give us back the Statue of Liberty,” Glucksmann said. “It was our gift to you. But apparently you despise her. So she will be happy here with us.”

Inside Forces

Glucksmann’s comments reflect broader European concerns about U.S. policy shifts, particularly under President Trump. Trump’s policies, including his stance on Ukraine and his administration’s handling of international relations, have been criticized by many in Europe.

Glucksmann’s party has been vocal about Trump’s policies, accusing him of wielding power in an “authoritarian” manner and criticizing his administration’s decision to pause military aid to Ukraine.

Power Dynamics

The White House has firmly rejected Glucksmann’s request. White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt responded by saying the U.S. would “absolutely not” be parting with the landmark. Leavitt also highlighted the historical debt of gratitude France owes to the U.S. for its support during World War I and World War II.

French President Emmanuel Macron is navigating a delicate relationship with the U.S., trying to balance cooperation with criticism of certain U.S. policies.

Outside Impact

The debate over the Statue of Liberty’s ownership has broader implications for U.S.-France relations and the global perception of U.S. values. The statue, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is seen as a symbol of freedom and democracy worldwide.

Glucksmann’s call, though symbolic, highlights the growing divide between the U.S. and some European countries over political and social values.

Future Forces

The future of U.S.-France relations will likely be shaped by how both countries navigate their differences in values and policies. While the return of the Statue of Liberty is highly unlikely, the debate underscores the need for ongoing dialogue and cooperation between the two nations.

Glucksmann’s “wake-up call” may prompt further discussions about the shared values and responsibilities of democratic nations.

Data Points

• 1870: The year a war between France and German states led by Prussia diverted the energies of the statue’s designer, Frédéric-Auguste Bartholdi.
• 1884: The year France presented the Statue of Liberty to the U.S.
• 1886: The year the statue was officially unveiled in New York City.
• 2025: The year Glucksmann made his call for the U.S. to return the Statue of Liberty.