“How could we be expected to go to South Africa for the very important G20 meeting when land confiscation and genocide is the primary topic of conversation?” Trump wrote. He continued, “They are taking the land of white farmers, and then killing them and their families. The media refuses to report on this. The United States has held back all contributions to South Africa. Is this where we want to be for the G20? I don’t think so!”
Trump’s post also included video clips featuring Julius Malema, leader of the far-left Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF), who has spoken about land occupation and controversially called the act of killing a “revolutionary act.” This has further fueled the accusations of an ongoing campaign of “white genocide” in South Africa.
Land reform in South Africa remains a contentious issue, particularly in the wake of the country’s transition from apartheid. Despite efforts to redistribute land to black South Africans, over 70% of commercial farmland is still owned by the white minority, according to AFP.
Tensions Between South Africa and the United States
Trump’s decision to skip the G20 summit follows a series of political tensions between South Africa and the United States. The relationship between the two nations has deteriorated, especially during Trump’s presidency, with the US repeatedly accusing South Africa of implementing anti-white policies.
Trump’s administration also took action by cutting US funding to South Africa and offering Afrikaners refugee status in the United States. This move has been part of a broader narrative pushed by Trump and some prominent figures, including South African-born billionaire Elon Musk, who has also criticized the country’s political rhetoric and actions concerning white South Africans. Musk has claimed that some South African political leaders are "actively promoting white genocide," referring to events such as the controversial rally by the EFF where members sang “Kill the Boer, the farmer.”
South African Response
South African President Cyril Ramaphosa’s spokesperson responded to Trump’s remarks by stating, “We were no longer expecting him to attend anyway.” This statement underscores the complicated nature of diplomatic relations between the two countries.
The G20 summit, set to take place in November 2025, will be hosted by South Africa, which currently holds the G20 presidency. The country has faced criticism from some quarters for its approach to land reform and the political rhetoric surrounding race relations, but it remains an important player on the global stage.
Conclusion: The Growing Rift
Trump’s decision to skip the G20 summit is the latest chapter in a growing rift between South Africa and the United States. As tensions rise over issues of land reform and race, the US has become increasingly vocal in its criticism of South African policies. This move also highlights the larger issue of land ownership and racial tensions that continue to shape South Africa’s post-apartheid society.
The international community is closely watching how this issue unfolds, especially as South Africa prepares to host the G20 summit and seeks to navigate complex relations with global powers.
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