Ramaphosa Heads to Washington Amid Diplomatic Strain with Trump
President Cyril Ramaphosa is set to meet with Donald Trump in Washington next week—marking a significant diplomatic moment between South Africa and the United States during a period of rising tensions.
According to a statement from Ramaphosa’s office, the two leaders will sit down on Wednesday, May 21, 2025, at the White House. The visit is being framed as an opportunity to recalibrate their relationship and open up dialogue on key political and global issues.
Ties between the two countries have become noticeably strained in recent months. Among the flashpoints is the U.S. decision to resettle a group of white South Africans—Afrikaners—citing alleged persecution. The South African government has firmly rejected this claim, saying the narrative misrepresents the country’s realities.
The U.S. has also taken a critical stance on several South African policies, including its legal case involving Israel at the International Court of Justice and legislation aimed at land reform. That law, meant to tackle historical land inequality, has drawn sharp criticism from Washington, with fears that it could result in the confiscation of white-owned property.
Despite the diplomatic tension, Trump has made a rare exception to his restrictive refugee stance, welcoming 49 Afrikaners into the U.S. earlier this week. South Africa’s Deputy President, Paul Mashatile, dismissed the decision, saying Trump had been misled. “There’s no genocide here. We’re a united, thriving nation. Black and white, we live and work side by side,” he told reporters. He also hinted that Ramaphosa might extend a warm invitation for Trump to visit South Africa and see it for himself.
The tension hasn’t just been verbal. In March, the U.S. expelled South Africa’s ambassador after he openly criticized Trump’s MAGA movement during an online event. Meanwhile, Pretoria has described Trump’s actions as politically charged and an attempt to cast doubt on South Africa’s democratic foundations.
Ramaphosa’s trip isn’t just about politics. Trade will also be on the table. The U.S. remains South Africa’s second-largest trading partner, but Trump’s sweeping tariff proposals—briefly paused for three months—have sparked unease across major industries, especially in automobile manufacturing and citrus exports.
As the South African leader prepares for several days of talks in the U.S., all eyes are on what tone this high-stakes meeting will set for the road ahead.
