Timesdo. Washington, USA – In a firm statement, White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt ruled out any possibility of the Statue of Liberty being returned to France.
The response came after Raphael Glucksmann, a French Member of the European Parliament, publicly called for the restitution of the iconic monument, arguing that its democratic symbolism would be better preserved on European soil.
The statue, inaugurated in 1886 as a gift from France to commemorate the centennial of the Declaration of Independence, has become a fundamental symbol of the United States. However, amid growing tensions between Europe and the administration of Donald Trump, Glucksmann’s request was met with strong rejection in Washington. During a press conference, Leavitt dismissed the proposal as «absurd», emphasizing that the U.S. has no intention of parting with the monument.
«Absolutely not,» the official declared, stressing that the statue rightfully belongs to the American people. She also downplayed the influence of the European lawmaker, referring to him as a «low-ranking, unknown politician.» Her words quickly ignited debate, prompting immediate reactions in both France and the United States.
Glucksmann, who co-chairs the left-wing party Place Publique, argued that certain sectors of U.S. politics had strayed from democratic values. «It was our gift to you, but apparently, you despise it,» the politician stated in a recent rally, suggesting that the statue «would be happier in France.» While his stance does not reflect that of Emmanuel Macron’s government, his remarks have rekindled discussions on global leadership in human rights and freedoms.
At the White House, Leavitt was even more blunt in her response, suggesting that France «should be grateful» to the U.S. for its role in World War II. «It is only thanks to the United States that the French are not speaking German right now,» the press secretary stated, in a comment that sparked reactions on social media and in the European press.
In response, Glucksmann took to X (formerly Twitter) to clarify his statements. «Our gratitude for U.S. support in times of war is eternal,» he wrote, though he reiterated that if Washington «is no longer interested in leading the free world,» Europe should take the initiative.
Despite the controversy, the Statue of Liberty will remain in place, overlooking New York Harbor, as it has for nearly 140 years. Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the monument was designed by sculptor Frédéric Auguste Bartholdi and financed by France, while the U.S. covered the cost of its pedestal. Its transportation required 350 pieces, assembled before its official unveiling on October 28, 1886.
Experts consider Glucksmann’s stance purely symbolic and believe that unless an unprecedented diplomatic rupture occurs, the monument will remain in the United States. For now, the Trump administration has made it clear that the Statue of Liberty is not up for negotiation.