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White House Rejects French Politician's Call to Return Statue of Liberty

Raphaël Glucksmann's criticism of U.S. policies draws a firm response, with the French government distancing itself from the demand.

The sun rises behind the Statue of Liberty in New York City on February 17, 2025 as seen from Jersey City, New Jersey.
FILE - The Statue of Liberty is seen from the Staten Island Ferry, Monday, Sept. 9, 2024, in New York. (AP Photo/Pamela Smith, file)
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Overview

  • French politician Raphaël Glucksmann argued the U.S. no longer represents the values symbolized by the Statue of Liberty and called for its return to France.
  • Glucksmann's remarks targeted the Trump administration's policies, including reduced support for Ukraine and cuts to federal research funding.
  • White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt dismissed the demand, emphasizing the statue's legal status as U.S. property and America's historical role in defending freedom.
  • The French government, led by President Emmanuel Macron, has not supported Glucksmann's position, underscoring stable diplomatic ties with the U.S.
  • The Statue of Liberty, gifted by France in 1886, remains a UNESCO World Heritage treasure and a symbol of shared democratic values between the two nations.