In a surprising call to action, a French politician has demanded that the United States return the Statue of Liberty, an iconic symbol gifted by France 138 years ago. The statue, which was presented to the U.S. on the centennial of its independence, has stood proudly on the New York City skyline as a beacon of freedom and democracy.

Raphael Glucksmann, a member of the European Parliament and a vocal critic of the current U.S. administration, expressed his concerns during a convention of the Group of the Progressive Alliance of Socialists and Democrats. He criticized the U.S. for no longer embodying the democratic values for which the statue stands.

“We're addressing the Americans who have chosen to side with tyranny,” Glucksmann stated, emphasizing the perceived abandonment of democratic ideals in the country. “We gave it to you as a gift, but apparently, you despise it. So it will be just fine here at home.”

At a White House press briefing, Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt quickly dismissed Glucksmann's remarks, asserting that the United States would “absolutely not” return the statue. Leavitt went further, reminding attendees that thanks to the United States, “the French are not speaking German right now,” suggesting that gratitude should be directed toward the U.S. for its historical role in World War II.

Glucksmann's comments are emblematic of a broader wave of criticism directed at the U.S. amid national and international tensions surrounding governance and human rights. In Canada, for instance, a notable anti-American sentiment has emerged, reflected in the removal of American flags from government buildings and public spaces in cities such as Mississauga and Barrie. This action follows a public request for local governments to demonstrate their disapproval of U.S. policies.

A recent survey by Canadian market researcher Leger revealed that 59% of Canadians are less likely to visit the U.S. in 2025 compared to 2024, along with two-thirds opting to minimize their purchases of American goods. This trend suggests a significant shift in public sentiment and consumer behavior towards prioritizing domestic products.

Canadians are also expressing their frustrations in more public ways; at sporting events, they have been observed drowning out The Star-Spangled Banner, a move highlighted by former Prime Minister Justin Trudeau as likely to continue amid increasing tensions between the two nations.

As the international community watches closely, Glucksmann’s provocative remarks capture a growing sentiment of discontent and the complex nature of diplomatic relationships—what will be the next chapter in the saga surrounding this gift of liberty? Stay tuned!