A routine diplomatic meeting at the White House took an unexpected turn when former U.S. President Donald Trump confronted South African President Cyril Ramaphosa with controversial allegations of “genocide” against white farmers in South Africa.
During the Oval Office visit, Trump interrupted formalities to screen a video he claimed supported accusations that white South African farmers are being targeted and forced to flee. The dramatic gesture left Ramaphosa visibly surprised, as he struggled to interject while Trump addressed the press.
“They’re white farmers, and they’re fleeing South Africa. It’s a very sad thing to see,” Trump said, implying that Ramaphosa owed the world an explanation. Ramaphosa, attempting to keep the tone diplomatic, responded by invoking the wisdom of Nelson Mandela, emphasizing dialogue and calm discussions.
The visit was initially intended to ease tensions between the two nations, particularly after Trump and South African-born tech mogul Elon Musk made repeated, unproven claims that white South Africans are victims of systematic violence. Musk, who was also present, has accused the South African government of racism, citing black empowerment policies that he claims hinder businesses like his Starlink satellite project.
Ramaphosa had hoped to reset the strained relationship with the U.S., bringing along prominent South Africans including golf legends Ernie Els and Retief Goosen, and billionaire Johann Rupert to appeal to Trump’s interests.
This diplomatic push comes just days after about 50 Afrikaners accepted Trump’s public offer of refuge—despite his administration’s broader crackdown on immigration.
At the heart of Trump’s criticism is a land reform law introduced in January, aimed at correcting centuries of racial land ownership imbalance. While South Africa insists the law is fair and legal, critics like Musk argue it’s discriminatory. Trump’s government has taken several steps in response, including slashing aid, imposing steep tariffs, and expelling South Africa’s ambassador over remarks critical of Trump’s MAGA movement.
Claims of violence against white farmers have long been pushed by right-wing groups, though South African police data shows most murder victims are young black men in urban areas—not rural white landowners.
Despite the tension, Ramaphosa reaffirmed his commitment to diplomacy and invited further discussions, hoping to shift the focus back to cooperation rather than confrontation.