Trump Ambushes South African President Ramaphosa in Oval Office Clash

U.S. President Donald Trump staged a highly orchestrated and contentious meeting with South African President Cyril Ramaphosa in the Oval Office, reminiscent of a previous confrontation with Ukraine's Volodymyr Zelenskyy. Trump confronted Ramaphosa with false claims of genocide against white South Africans, including allegations of mass killings and land seizures, turning the traditionally respectful setting of the Oval Office into a venue for political ambush. Despite a cordial start and diplomatic exchanges, Trump dimmed the lights and showed videos and articles to support his unfounded accusations, disrupting efforts to reset strained U.S.–South Africa relations. This aggressive approach by Trump has sparked criticism, with former U.S. ambassador Patrick Gaspard describing the event as a "shameful spectacle" that may discourage foreign leaders from accepting Oval Office invitations, fearing public humiliation. Experts warn that such behavior could harm U.S. diplomatic ties, especially as allies face pressure from China's growing influence. The incident underscores Trump's willingness to use presidential settings for confrontational displays on issues he fixates upon, complicating traditional diplomatic norms.