French politician Raphael Glucksmann demands US return Statue of Liberty
What's the story
French politician Raphael Glucksmann has demanded that the US return the iconic Statue of Liberty. According to him, America no longer stands for what the historic monument symbolizes. The demand came in a speech at a party convention, where he condemned US actions and policies. "We're going to say to the Americans who have chosen to side with the tyrants...Give us back the Statue of Liberty," he said in his address.
Political stance
Glucksmann's criticism of US policies
Glucksmann has been vocal against the US government's recent decisions. He particularly slammed President Donald Trump's regime for firing researchers fighting for freedom of science. "We gave it to you as a gift, but apparently you despise it," he said, referring to the statue during his speech. The politician further hinted that if America continued such moves, France would happily welcome home these fired researchers.
Advocacy
Glucksmann's support for Ukraine
Glucksmann is a diehard supporter of Ukraine and has been vocal about his discontent with Trump regarding the ongoing Russia-Ukraine war. His recent remarks about the Statue of Liberty are part of his larger criticism of the US policies in the wake of Trump's rule. The statue was gifted by France in honor of their alliance, presented in 1884, shipped in 1885, and unveiled in 1886, but America, he says, no longer represents its values.
Historical significance
The Statue of Liberty: A symbol of freedom
The Statue of Liberty, designed by French sculptor Auguste Bartholdi, was a gift from the people of France to America. Fully assembled and unveiled in 1886, it became a symbol of freedom, democracy, and hope. Glucksmann has been a member of the Group of the Progressive Alliance of Socialists and Democrats in the European Parliament.