Trump Disinvites South Africa from Next G20 Summit Amid Genocide Allegations
JOHANNESBURG, SOUTH AFRICA - November 27, 2023 – Former U.S. President Donald Trump has reportedly disinvited South Africa from participating in the next G20 summit, scheduled for 2024, citing unsubstantiated claims of genocide against white farmers in the country. The move escalates a diplomatic dispute sparked by the U.S.’s limited depiction at the conclusion of South Africa’s 2023 G20 presidency.
The disinvitation, confirmed by sources close to Trump, follows his prior refusal to attend the Johannesburg summit, which he justified by alleging violence targeting white settlers. This decision threatens to fracture relations between the two nations and raises concerns about the future of U.S. engagement with African partners. The G20, a forum comprising the world’s 20 major economies, is a critical platform for international cooperation on financial and economic issues. South Africa’s exclusion from the next summit could diminish the group’s influence and signal a shift in U.S. foreign policy priorities.
South African Foreign Minister Ronald Lamola responded to the U.S.’s downgraded presence at the johannesburg handover ceremony-where Washington only sent a representative from its embassy-by stating, ”If they want to be represented, they can continue to send any person at the appropriate level.” this statement underscored South Africa’s perception of diplomatic disrespect towards President Cyril Ramaphosa.
Trump’s claims of genocide have been widely disputed by South African officials and international observers, who point to a lack of evidence supporting such allegations. The issue has been fueled by right-wing media outlets and political groups both in the U.S. and South Africa.
