NEW DELHI: A recent call from French Euro-deputy Raphaël Glucksmann has ignited a heated debate regarding the Statue of Liberty, originally gifted to the United States by France in 1886. Glucksmann, addressing the values he believes are no longer represented by the U.S. under President Donald Trump, stated, “Give us back the Statue of Liberty… Apparently, you despise her. So she will be happy here with us.” His comments reflect growing dissatisfaction over America’s alignment with authoritarian figures and have resonated with many in Europe, thanks to the historical significance of the statue.

The White House, through Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt, dismissed Glucksmann's remarks as "low-level" and asserted that without U.S. support in World War II, “the French would be speaking German right now.” Leavitt emphasized that the U.S. should be appreciated for its past sacrifices. This assertion has not gone unchallenged; various commentators highlighted the long-standing historical ties between the two nations, noting that American independence was also due to French support during the Revolutionary War.

In direct response to Leavitt, Glucksmann expressed his admiration for American values in the past, stating, “Our two people are intimately linked by History, the blood we shed, and the passion for freedom we share...” He criticized the current U.S. administration for abandoning democratic ideals, further condemning the political climate that has emerged post-Trump. He lamented upcoming actions against scientific freedom and the philosophy behind the Statue of Liberty, asserting, “No one, of course, will come and steal the Statue of Liberty. The statue is yours. But what it embodies belongs to everyone.”

The Statue of Liberty has not only been a symbol of hope and freedom for immigrants arriving on American shores but also serves as a reminder of the deep-rooted friendship that exists between the nations. As Europe watches the unfolding events, many hope for a resurgence of the America that inspired the world.

For further details, read the full article from Times of India.