During a tense meeting with former U.S. President Donald Trump, South African President Cyril Ramaphosa was commended for his composed response to Trump’s unfounded claims about white people being persecuted in South Africa.
Ramaphosa, drawing on his experience as a key negotiator during the end of apartheid, calmly countered Trump’s assertions, which had been amplified by figures like Elon Musk.
Ramaphosa addressed Trump’s “white genocide” claims by stating that crime in South Africa affects all races, with the majority of victims being Black.
His measured approach was widely praised in South Africa, with analysts like Ralph Mathekga noting his tact and emotional control.
The meeting occurred amidst strained relations, as Trump had cut aid to South Africa and threatened trade tariffs.Ramaphosa’s strategy included bringing along influential white South Africans, such as billionaire Johann Rupert and golfers Ernie Els and Retief Goosen, to engage with Trump.
This pragmatic approach was seen as an attempt to manage the difficult situation.
Ramaphosa’s ability to maintain composure and engage diplomatically, even when faced with aggressive interruptions and misleading information, was highlighted.
He even attempted to use humor to defuse tension, although Trump remained largely unmoved.
