South African President Cyril Ramaphosa has described his high-profile meeting with US President Donald Trump at the White House on 21 May 2025 as a “major success” despite the conversation taking an unexpected turn towards unverified claims of “white genocide” in South Africa.
Ramaphosa, accompanied by four ministers, billionaire businessman Johann Rupert, and renowned golfers Ernie Els and Retief Goosen, held discussions with Trump at the Oval Office as part of a diplomatic engagement aimed at strengthening US-SA ties on trade, investment, and diplomacy.
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Trump Shifts Focus to White Farmer Killings
The meeting began on a positive note, with Trump warmly welcoming Cyril Ramaphosa and his delegation. However, it quickly shifted when Trump presented disturbing videos, including one of EFF leader Julius Malema chanting “Kill the Boer, Kill the Farmer.” Trump used this to support his controversial claim that white Afrikaners, especially farmers, are victims of state-sanctioned violence in South Africa.
The shift was unexpected. Trump also referenced a burial site shown in another video, alleging it to be evidence of genocide. However, when Ramaphosa asked where the video was filmed, Trump admitted he had no specific details.
Cyril Ramaphosa remained composed during the confrontation, opting not to respond immediately. Instead, he emphasized the need for evidence-based discussions and later told the media, “I’d like to know where it is [the video location], as I’ve never seen it before.”
US Accepts Afrikaner Refugees Amid Rising Tensions
This diplomatic exchange comes amid heightened tensions, following the US’s controversial acceptance of 49 Afrikaners as refugees just days earlier. Trump defended the move by saying these individuals are fleeing persecution in South Africa.
“There are people being persecuted. Many feel they are being executed, and they happen to be white,” said Trump.
This marks a new chapter in South Africa–US relations, as Trump’s administration has become increasingly vocal about race-based policies and crime in South Africa. South African-born billionaire Elon Musk has also added fuel to the fire with his criticism of land reform laws.
Cyril Ramaphosa’s Response: Focus on Unity and Trade
Despite being ambushed, Ramaphosa reiterated that South Africa remains a democratic nation where everyone’s voice matters.
“There is criminality in our country, and those who are killed include both black and white South Africans. The idea that there is genocide against white farmers is false and divisive,” Ramaphosa told reporters.
He added that Malema’s actions and words are not reflective of government policy. When asked why Malema hadn’t been arrested, Ramaphosa declined to answer in front of the media.
Instead, Ramaphosa pivoted the conversation toward trade and economic cooperation, noting that discussions about the African Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA) would continue between US Commerce Secretary and South Africa’s Trade and Industry Minister.
Rupert and Steenhuisen Reject Genocide Claims
Businessman Johann Rupert and Minister of Agriculture John Steenhuisen strongly rejected the narrative of white genocide. Rupert stated: “Crime affects all South Africans, not just white farmers. It is a national issue.”
Steenhuisen emphasized that the government is committed to farmer protection, citing anti-theft and security initiatives. He added that the individuals shown in Trump’s videos do not represent the South African government.
Golf, Investment, and Dialogue
Interestingly, Trump had personally invited South African golf icons Ernie Els and Retief Goosen to the meeting. “He loves golf and respects them as athletes,” said Ramaphosa.
Els, reflecting on his upbringing under apartheid, urged both leaders to foster peace: “Two wrongs don’t make a right. We came here to look forward and help our nation flourish.”
Ramaphosa described the meeting as “robust and fruitful,” with discussions also covering future technology partnerships, trade incentives, and the need for ongoing dialogue between the two countries.
A Test of Diplomacy
While the Oval Office meeting was marred by misinformation and dramatic confrontations, President Ramaphosa remained diplomatic and focused on fostering stronger bilateral ties. He stressed the need for mutual understanding and encouraged President Trump to “listen to the voices of South Africans.”
“We will continue to engage constructively,” Ramaphosa concluded, signaling that South Africa’s global diplomacy remains focused on facts, economic progress, and peace.
