What’s supposed to be a high-level diplomatic meeting next week in Washington might turn into a political minefield for South African President Cyril Ramaphosa.
Instead of a warm handshake and talks about rebuilding ties, he’s reportedly walking into what some are calling a potential “ambush” from none other than former U.S. President Donald Trump.
The upcoming meeting is meant to focus on restoring diplomatic and trade relations between the U.S. and South Africa—but rising political tensions and controversial accusations may shift the spotlight.
Tensions Already Heating Up
Recently, the relationship between the two nations has been anything but smooth.
Trump has made serious claims against the South African government, accusing it of targeting minority communities—especially Afrikaners—through land reform policies.
He’s even gone so far as to allege that white farmers are victims of a genocide, echoing statements that have already drawn international criticism.
Now, with Ramaphosa heading to Washington, there’s concern this rhetoric could take center stage.
Warnings of a Possible “Zelensky Moment”
Speaking to Newzroom Afrika, U.S. correspondent Simon Marks didn’t sugarcoat it—he warned that Ramaphosa might be treated like Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky was during his Oval Office visit.
In that meeting, Zelensky was grilled harshly, with some American officials calling him “disrespectful” and accusing him of stirring up global tensions.
Marks suggested, “This might be the most high-stakes sit-down between South Africa and the U.S. ever—yes, even more than during the apartheid era.”
He noted Trump’s rigidity on issues like land reform and claimed, “Ramaphosa will likely face a very tough crowd.”
Trump Holds a Fixed View on South African Politics
According to Marks, Trump has formed a strong—and possibly immovable—opinion about land redistribution in South Africa.
“He’s convinced Afrikaners are being stripped of their land unfairly,” Marks explained, referring to the Expropriation Act.
“That narrative of white victimization is deeply embedded in Trump’s viewpoint.”
Ramaphosa will no doubt want to push back against what he considers misinformation—but shifting Trump’s stance won’t be easy.
A Tough Crowd Awaits in the Oval Office
Marks didn’t hold back when describing what Ramaphosa might face.
“We all remember how Zelensky was basically ambushed by Trump and his team.
There’s every chance that could happen again,” he warned. With allies like Trump’s vice presidential pick, JD Vance, expected to be in the room, the tone of the meeting could turn confrontational very quickly.
Ramaphosa Already Tried to Set the Record Straight
Earlier this week, Ramaphosa shared that he’d already had a phone call with Trump to try and clear the air. According to Ramaphosa, he told Trump: “What you’ve been told by people who oppose transformation in South Africa simply isn’t true.”
He went on to explain South Africa’s vision of unity, crediting Nelson Mandela and Oliver Tambo for guiding the nation’s post-apartheid rebuilding.
History Lessons Might Not Land Well
But Marks offered a word of caution—giving Trump a history or civics lesson might not work out the way Ramaphosa hopes.
“Trying to explain the ANC’s history and vision might actually backfire,” he suggested.
With Trump’s tendency to double down on his beliefs, nuance might be lost in the exchange.
Stakes Are High for South Africa’s Global Image
This isn’t just about a personal exchange between two presidents—it’s a moment that could affect South Africa’s diplomatic standing and trade opportunities with one of the world’s biggest economies.
Supporters of Ramaphosa hope he can handle the pressure without compromising his message or being overshadowed by political theatrics.
Will There Be Fireworks in Washington?
As the world watches, all eyes are on what will unfold in the room when these two very different leaders go head-to-head.
It’s not just about correcting the narrative—it’s about navigating an increasingly divided international landscape where truth, politics, and power are constantly colliding.