Police in Slovenia are currently investigating the theft of a bronze statue of Melania Trump, the former first lady of the United States, that was stolen from her hometown of Sevnica. The life-size sculpture was unveiled in 2020, during Donald Trump’s presidential term, and was positioned near where Melania, born Melanija Knavs, spent her early years.
Details reveal that the statue was sawed off at the ankles and removed, with the police informed of the theft earlier this week. Police spokeswoman Alenka Drenik Rangus has indicated that efforts are underway to track down those responsible for the act.
This incident follows a previous controversy surrounding an earlier statue—a wooden figure that had been set ablaze in 2020. This original sculpture, made from a linden tree, displayed Melania in a pale blue dress reminiscent of her inauguration gown but received mixed reviews from locals, some of whom criticized its likeness and quality.
The recent bronze replica, while intended as a tribute, also seems to lack a strong resemblance to Melania Trump, further complicating the community’s sentiments regarding these artistic representations.
As Slovenia grapples with yet another incident linked to this high-profile figure, it raises questions about the community’s relationship with her legacy. The hope is that this theft can be resolved and perhaps lead to a renewed conversation about the cultural significance of public art in the area.