A French politician dramatically calls for the return of the Statue of Liberty, igniting a fiery transatlantic exchange with the White House.
Raphael Glucksmann, a member of the European Parliament, ignited a heated controversy by demanding the United States return the Statue of Liberty, claiming that some Americans have sided with tyrants. His comments, made at a rally, prompted a sharp rebuke from White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt, who highlighted America's role in liberating France from Nazi Germany. Glucksmann, in response, clarified that his gratitude for American WWII heroes remains, but expressed alarm over actions by former President Trump, contrasting them with the actions of the heroes. He emphasized that the Statue of Liberty's symbolism belongs to the world, and that if the US government no longer values its ideals, Europe would take up the torch. Despite his small party, Glucksmann's statement has garnered significant media attention in France, particularly given his rumored presidential aspirations for 2027.
