Tensions between the United States and France have been building since President Donald Trump’s return to office. Many European nations have expressed concerns about America’s changing approach to global affairs. I’ve noticed that this reflects a deeper divide in how they view our rightful place in the world.
The relationship has been particularly strained in recent weeks. Disagreements over Ukraine policy and trade issues have dominated discussions. And let’s be honest – Europe never seems happy unless America is footing their bills.
President Trump met with French President Emmanuel Macron last month to address these concerns.
A French politician has since demanded that the United States return the Statue of Liberty to France, claiming America no longer represents the values embodied by the iconic monument.
White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt delivered an immediate and forceful response when asked about the demand during a press briefing Monday. The 27-year-old press secretary, the youngest in White House history, shut down the suggestion with unmistakable clarity.
“Absolutely not,” Leavitt responded. “And, my advice to that unnamed, low-level French politician would be to remind them that it’s only because of the United States of America that the French are not speaking German right now.”
Boom!
Leavitt’s pointed reference to America’s decisive role in liberating France from Nazi occupation during World War II left little room for debate. She added that the French “should be very grateful to our great country,” underscoring the historical debt owed to American sacrifice.
Can you imagine the audacity required to demand the return of a gift while forgetting who saved your nation from tyranny?
A French politician is asking for the Statue of Liberty back.
Karoline Leavitt retorts "it's only because of the United States of America that the French aren't speaking German right now."
If she wants to play the oversimplification game, then it's thanks to funding from France… pic.twitter.com/6mKCgvivhM
— Art Candee 🍿🥤 (@ArtCandee) March 17, 2025
A Bold Demand Rejected
The comments that sparked this diplomatic dust-up came from Raphaël Glucksmann, a member of the European Parliament and co-president of a small leftist party in France. During a speech on Sunday, Glucksmann accused the United States of having “chosen to switch to the side of the tyrants.”
“Give us back the Statue of Liberty,” Glucksmann demanded. “It was our gift to you. But apparently you despise her. So she will be happy here with us.”
The French politician’s remarks reflect growing European discontent with America’s shifting foreign policy priorities. Glucksmann, a staunch supporter of Ukraine, has been critical of the Trump administration’s approach to the Russia-Ukraine conflict.
Leavitt’s response highlights the administration’s unwillingness to accept criticism from European allies who benefit from American protection while questioning American leadership.
French MEP Raphaël Glucksmann suggests that the U.S. return the Statue of Liberty:
“We’re going to say to the Americans who have chosen to side with the tyrants: ‘Give [it back.] We gave it to you as a gift, but apparently you despise it. So it will be just fine here at home.” pic.twitter.com/5Lxg69nWKj
— Pop Base (@PopBase) March 17, 2025
America’s Legacy of Liberation
The exchange underscores a fundamental conservative principle: America’s historical role as the world’s defender of freedom deserves respect and gratitude.
The Statue of Liberty, standing over 300 feet tall in New York Harbor, was indeed a gift from France. It was presented to the United States on July 4, 1884, the 108th anniversary of American independence. Designed by Frédéric Auguste Bartholdi and structured by Gustave Eiffel, the statue symbolized friendship between the two nations.
However, as Leavitt pointedly noted, America later paid an enormous price in blood and treasure to liberate France from Nazi occupation. Over 400,000 American soldiers died in World War II, with tens of thousands giving their lives specifically for France’s freedom. Isn’t it remarkable how quickly European nations forget this sacrifice when it becomes politically convenient?
The statue has become a powerful symbol of American liberty and values. Its permanent home remains in New York Harbor, despite Glucksmann’s demands.
BREAKING: A French Parliament member is demanding that the U.S. return the Statue of Liberty, claiming that America has lost its way and no longer stands for what the iconic sculpture represents. pic.twitter.com/qTXCRjBSSE
— Leading Report (@LeadingReport) March 16, 2025
Standing Firm for American Values
The Statue of Liberty represents core American principles that conservatives have long defended. Its torch lights the way for those seeking freedom. Its tablet displays the date of American independence. The broken chains at its feet symbolize liberation from tyranny.
These symbols reflect enduring American values that transcend partisan politics. They represent America’s commitment to freedom and self-determination.
Glucksmann’s suggestion that America now “despises” these values reveals a fundamental misunderstanding of America’s continued global leadership. While approaches to foreign policy may change, America’s commitment to freedom remains steadfast. The irony here is breathtaking – a French leftist lecturing America about liberty while his own country struggles with its identity.
France, despite its historical contribution to American independence, would do well to remember America’s decisive role in preserving French freedom during its darkest hour.
Key Takeaways
- White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt firmly rejected a French politician’s demand to return the Statue of Liberty.
- Leavitt reminded France they “should be grateful” America saved them from Nazi Germany in WWII.
- The 27-year-old Press Secretary demonstrated the Trump administration’s unwavering defense of American symbols and history.
- European critics continue attacking America while forgetting they owe their freedom to American sacrifice.
Sources: Daily Wire, The Independent, People Magazine
