What's happened
A life-size bronze statue of Melania Trump, located near her hometown of Sevnica, Slovenia, was reported stolen on May 13, 2025. The statue, which replaced a previous wooden version that was burned in 2020, was cut off at the ankles. Local police are investigating the theft.
What's behind the headline?
Context of the Theft
The theft of the Melania Trump statue raises questions about public sentiment towards the former first lady and her husband’s political legacy.
- Public Perception: Many residents of Sevnica expressed indifference towards the statue, with some stating it was not missed. Igor Pavkovic, a local, remarked, "I don’t even want to think about her that much."
- Motivations Behind the Theft: Speculations range from vandalism to the possibility of the statue being melted down for cash. The timing of the theft coincides with ongoing public dissatisfaction with Trump’s policies, suggesting a potential political undertone.
- Cultural Significance: The statue was seen as an "anti-monument" by its creator, reflecting the contradictions of Melania Trump's immigrant background against her husband's strict immigration policies. This theft could symbolize a broader rejection of that narrative.
The incident highlights the complex relationship between art, politics, and public sentiment, particularly in a small town that has become a focal point for discussions about the Trump family.
What the papers say
According to the New York Times, the statue's disappearance has sparked various theories among locals, with some suggesting it was an act of vandalism rather than a politically motivated theft. Alenka Drenik, a police spokeswoman, confirmed that the investigation is ongoing, stating, "Police are still assessing the theft."
The Independent noted that the statue was cut off at the ankles, indicating a deliberate act rather than a random act of vandalism. Artist Brad Downey expressed sadness over the loss, hinting at a connection to the political climate surrounding Trump's re-election campaign. He stated, "My feeling is that it has something to do with the new election [of Donald Trump], but who knows, right?"
The Guardian emphasized the statue's role as a commentary on immigration, with Downey previously describing it as an "anti-monument". This perspective adds depth to the narrative surrounding the theft, suggesting that it may resonate with broader societal frustrations.
How we got here
The bronze statue was unveiled in 2020 after the original wooden statue was destroyed by arsonists. Created by American artist Brad Downey, the bronze version was intended as a commentary on immigration policies during Donald Trump's presidency.
Go deeper
- What was the original statue like?
- How do locals feel about Melania Trump?
- What are the implications of this theft?
Common question
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What Happened to the Melania Trump Statue in Slovenia?
The recent theft of a bronze statue of Melania Trump in Slovenia has sparked significant interest and debate. This incident not only raises questions about the statue's fate but also its political implications amid Donald Trump's ongoing election campaign. Below, we explore the details surrounding the theft and its broader significance.
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What does the theft of Melania Trump's statue signify?
The recent theft of a bronze statue of Melania Trump in Slovenia has sparked widespread discussion and debate. This incident raises questions about the cultural significance of public art, the political implications of such acts, and the public's reaction to the Trump legacy. Below, we explore various aspects of this event and its broader implications.
More on these topics
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Slovenia, officially the Republic of Slovenia, is a country located in Europe at the crossroads of main European cultural and trade routes.
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Melania Trump is a Slovenian-American former model, businesswoman, and the current first lady of the United States, as the wife of the 45th president of the United States, Donald Trump.
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Donald John Trump is an American politician, media personality, and businessman who served as the 45th president of the United States from 2017 to 2021.
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Brad Downey (born 1980 in Louisville, Kentucky) is an American artist, political activist, and filmmaker. Downey lives in Berlin.