Key Points:

• French politician Raphaël Glucksmann requests the return of the Statue of Liberty, citing US policy changes.
• The White House dismisses the suggestion as "absolutely not," with press secretary Karoline Leavitt making controversial remarks.
• The call sparked widespread criticism and discussion about Franco-American relations and shared historical contributions.

In a passionate address during his party's convention, French Euro-deputy Raphaël Glucksmann called for the return of the Statue of Liberty, claiming the United States no longer embodies the values it represented when France gifted the statue nearly 140 years ago. “Give us back the Statue of Liberty,” Glucksmann proclaimed, addressing criticisms of US policies under President Donald Trump, specifically regarding treatment of scientists and international alliances. He stressed, “We gave it to you as a gift, but apparently, you despise her,” underscoring the long-standing friendship symbolized by the statue, which stands in New York Harbor and was unveiled in 1886 to commemorate the American Declaration of Independence according to SCMP.

The White House quickly rebuffed the call, with press secretary Karoline Leavitt labeling Glucksmann a “low-level politician” and stating emphatically that, “Absolutely not,” when asked about the potential for returning the statue. She further remarked, “It’s only because of the United States of America that the French are not speaking German right now,” a statement that elicited backlash and accusations of historical ignorance from critics on social media, who pointed out the significant contributions of France to the American Revolution and subsequent wars reported by Le Monde.

Glucksmann’s comments reflect a growing dissatisfaction in France over US foreign and domestic policies, particularly in context with the ongoing war in Ukraine, where he has been a vocal supporter of military aid to Ukraine against Russian aggression. He pointed to the Trump administration's withdrawal from various international agreements and funding cuts to research as factors that have altered America's standing as a beacon of democracy and freedom. “If you want to fire your best researchers... we’re going to welcome them,” he said, indicating a willingness to attract talent disillusioned by US policy The Hill noted.

Glucksmann’s remarks have landed amidst a strained yet complex relationship between France and the US, especially as President Emmanuel Macron attempts to navigate cooperation with the Trump administration while asserting France’s own values. The statue’s legacy as a gift representing friendship and liberty continues to provoke dialogue about current US governance and its implications on international relations discussed in the LA Times.

For further insight, see the full story from HuffPost.