President Cyril Ramaphosa has firmly rejected threats by US President Donald Trump to block South Africa from the 2026 G20 summit. In a televised address on Sunday, Ramaphosa called Trump’s claims about a “white genocide” in the country “blatant misinformation”. He stated that South Africa would continue to participate in the G20 as a founding member.
The diplomatic tensions follow the recent G20 summit in Johannesburg. Trump, who did not attend, later threatened to bar South Africa from the next summit in the US.
He repeated allegations of human rights abuses against white South Africans. Ramaphosa addressed these claims directly, stating the US administration’s stance was influenced by a disinformation campaign.
Ramaphosa emphasised that South Africa is a member of the G20 in its own right. He confirmed the country would continue to engage constructively with the group.
Despite the tensions, he described South Africa as a “firm and unwavering friend of the American people”. He also highlighted the shared values between the two nations.
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National dialogue
Without naming names, the president also addressed the domestic groups spreading these narratives. He said those spreading disinformation were undermining South Africa’s national interests. Ramaphosa stated their actions were destroying jobs and harming key international relationships.
He invited these individuals and groups to bring their concerns to the upcoming National Dialogue. This would allow South African problems to be solved by South Africans.
Despite the heated rhetoric from Trump, Ramaphosa maintained a commitment to dialogue. He said South Africa would continue to engage with the US government with “respect and dignity”. The focus remains on shared interests and the prosperity of both nations.
Image: YouTube/Central News South Africa
