Ramaphosa, Trump Meet Amid G20, Racial Tensions

South African President Cyril Ramaphosa met with U.S. President Donald Trump at the White House amid escalating diplomatic tensions primarily centered on allegations by the Trump administration of a 'genocide' against white Afrikaner farmers in South Africa, which Ramaphosa strongly denied. The meeting aimed to ease strained relations following Trump's executive order suspending U.S. aid to South Africa and his controversial acceptance of white South Africans as refugees, citing persecution claims. Ramaphosa used the visit to extend an invitation to Trump to attend the upcoming G20 summit in South Africa, emphasizing the importance of U.S. leadership in the forum despite Trump's public skepticism about the summit's significance due to South Africa's policies, including its stance on Palestine and racial equity laws. Trump indicated he would press Ramaphosa to roll back South Africa's racial equity policies and increase protections for Afrikaners, reflecting the administration's broader opposition to diversity and historical redress measures. Despite Trump’s sharp criticisms and threats of a boycott, Ramaphosa remains optimistic about U.S. participation and highlighted the foundational role of the U.S. in the G20, seeking to promote diplomatic collaboration and counter disinformation. The meeting encapsulates a critical moment for U.S.-South Africa relations, balancing contentious domestic issues with global diplomatic responsibilities.