- French politician Raphaël Glucksmann demanded the U.S. return the Statue of Liberty, claiming America no longer embodies freedom.
- Glucksmann criticized U.S. policies under Trump, accusing the nation of siding with "tyrants" and cutting research funding.
- The Statue of Liberty, gifted by France in 1886, symbolizes freedom and democracy, making the demand widely ridiculed.
- France’s own struggles with economic stagnation, crime, and political divisions undermine Glucksmann’s credibility.
- The demand is seen as a political stunt targeting Trump’s America-first agenda, with no realistic chance of fulfillment.
European elitism and hypocrisy was on full display when French politician Raphaël Glucksmann recently demanded that the United States return the Statue of Liberty, claiming Americans no longer deserve the iconic symbol of freedom.
The center-left member of the French Parliament made the outrageous remarks during a party convention in Paris on March 16, accusing the U.S. of siding with "tyrants" and abandoning its commitment to liberty. The demand, which has been widely ridiculed, appears to be a thinly veiled retaliation against President Donald Trump’s policies, including his insistence that European nations pay their fair share for defense and his cuts to federal research funding.
Glucksmann’s comments, dripping with condescension, reflect the typical arrogance of European socialists who lecture America on freedom while their own nations grapple with economic stagnation, rising security threats, and internal divisions. His demand for the return of the Statue of Liberty is not only absurd but also reveals a deep-seated resentment toward American sovereignty and independence.
A gift, not a loan
The Statue of Liberty, a 305-foot-tall copper monument designed by French sculptor Auguste Bartholdi, was gifted to the United States in 1886 to commemorate the centennial of the Declaration of Independence. It has since stood as a universal symbol of freedom, democracy and hope for millions of immigrants who arrived in America seeking a better life. Glucksmann, however, claims that the U.S. no longer embodies these values.
"We gave it to you as a gift, but apparently you despise it. So, it will be just fine here at home," Glucksmann told cheering supporters at the convention, according to French newspaper Le Monde. He went on to accuse Americans of "choosing to side with tyrants" and criticized Trump’s administration for cutting funding to research institutions and reducing support for Ukraine in its war against Russia.
The irony of Glucksmann’s remarks is hard to ignore. France, a nation currently struggling with economic instability, rising crime, and internal political divisions, is hardly in a position to lecture the United States on freedom or governance. Meanwhile, President Trump’s policies, including his push for European nations to contribute more to NATO, have been widely praised for strengthening global security and holding allies accountable.
A political stunt rooted in resentment
Glucksmann’s demand is clearly a political stunt aimed at rallying his base and criticizing Trump’s America-first agenda. His party, Place Publique, has been vocal in its opposition to Trump’s policies, accusing him of authoritarianism and undermining global stability. However, the French politician’s rhetoric rings hollow given his own country’s challenges.
France’s economy has been sluggish for years, with high unemployment and a growing reliance on government intervention. Meanwhile, security threats, including terrorism and civil unrest, continue to plague the nation. Glucksmann’s focus on the Statue of Liberty, rather than addressing these pressing issues, underscores the disconnect between European elites and the realities faced by their own citizens.
America isn't going to return the Statue of Liberty
The idea of returning the Statue of Liberty to France is, of course, ludicrous. The monument is not only a cherished symbol of American values but also a UNESCO World Heritage Site and U.S. government property. As the Associated Press noted, French-U.S. relations would have to "drop off a cliff" for such a demand to gain traction.
Glucksmann’s comments have sparked widespread ridicule and disbelief, with many Americans dismissing his remarks as the latest example of European arrogance. Social media users have been quick to point out the absurdity of the demand, with one user quipping, "We’re not giving it back, but thanks for the offer."
As for President Trump, his response to Glucksmann’s demand is eagerly anticipated. Known for his no-nonsense approach to foreign policy and his willingness to call out hypocrisy, Trump is unlikely to let the French politician’s remarks go unanswered.
Raphaël Glucksmann’s demand for the return of the Statue of Liberty is a laughable and hypocritical attempt to criticize the United States while ignoring his own country’s shortcomings. It serves as a reminder of the disdain many European elites hold for American independence and sovereignty. The Statue of Liberty will remain where it belongs—in New York Harbor, standing as a beacon of freedom for the world. As for Glucksmann and his ilk, perhaps they should focus on fixing their own problems before lecturing others.
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