French Politician's Demand: "Return the Statue of Liberty!"

In a pointed speech, French MEP Raphael Glucksmann recently called on the U.S. to return the iconic Statue of Liberty, originally gifted by France to celebrate American independence. Speaking at a party convention, Glucksmann declared, “Give us back the Statue of Liberty!”

He argued that the U.S. no longer embodies the values that inspired France to present the statue back in 1886. “We're going to say to the Americans who have chosen to side with the tyrants... 'You apparently despise it, so it will be just fine here at home!'” he quipped, igniting cheers from his supporters.

Fun fact: The Statue of Liberty, designed by Frenchman Auguste Bartholdi, stands proudly in New York’s harbor, symbolizing freedom and democracy. The structure was built by Gustave Eiffel (best known for his tower). France has a smaller replica on the River Seine in Paris! It represent Lady Liberty holding the constitution and standing on broken shackles.

Who is Raphael Glucksmann?

Raphael Glucksmann is a French center-left politician known for his strong stance on Ukraine and criticism of Donald Trump’s policies. The member of the European Parliament for the Place Publique party also took a jab at recent cuts to U.S. research funding. “If you want to fire your best researchers... then we’re going to welcome them!” he added, echoing an initiative to welcome researchers to France following funding cuts in the US.

Glucksmann’s comments remind us that even international gifts are taken seriously.

(Michael Leahy. Source: France24 et al. Photo: Laurenz Heymann / Unsplash)