A French politician recently floated the idea of taking back the Statue of Liberty, and the White House did not hold back in its response.
During a press briefing on Monday, White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt was asked about remarks made by French Member of European Parliament Raphael Glucksmann. In an interview with Politico, Glucksmann accused some in the United States of siding with “tyrants” and criticized the dismissal of researchers for defending scientific freedom. He then jokingly suggested that France should reclaim the Statue of Liberty, which was gifted to the U.S. in 1886 as a symbol of freedom.
But Leavitt shut down the suggestion fast, firing back:
“The French should be very grateful they’re not speaking German right now.”
French Official Doubles Down on Criticism of the U.S.
Glucksmann didn’t back down. Just hours later, he posted a long thread on X/Twitter addressing Americans directly.
“Dear Americans,” he wrote. “Since the White House press secretary is attacking me today, I wanted to tell you this.”
He acknowledged the strong historical ties between the United States and France, particularly in World War II, admitting that without American soldiers landing on the beaches of Normandy, he might not even be alive today.
But then, he launched into a harsh critique of the current U.S. leadership, suggesting that America has drifted from its founding principles.
“The America of these heroes fought against tyrants. It was the enemy of fascism, not the friend of Putin.”
Glucksmann accused Biden’s administration of:
✅ Flattering tyrants instead of opposing them
✅ Attacking Ukraine instead of supporting it
✅ Censoring researchers instead of defending free speech
✅ Targeting citizens instead of protecting them
He then took a direct swipe at President Biden:
“The America I honor is far removed from what your current President does, says, and embodies.”
Patriotism vs. Political Games?
Glucksmann’s remarks have ignited debate. Many Americans argue that France should remember who fought for their freedom, rather than lecturing the U.S. on leadership.
Meanwhile, critics of the current administration say this is yet another example of how America’s global reputation has weakened under Biden’s policies.
What Do You Think?
Should France be criticizing the U.S., or should they show more gratitude for America’s sacrifices?