Ramaphosa dismisses US attacks on South Africa as 'misinformation'

Late on Sunday, South African President Cyril Ramaphosa accused the United States of spreading "blatant misinformation" by suggesting that white citizens in his country were being targeted.

Since returning to the White House earlier this year, US President Donald Trump has frequently criticized South Africa, citing unverified reports of a so-called "white genocide" targeting Afrikaners, a minority descended from European settlers.

The United States did not participate in last weekend's G20 summit in Johannesburg. Trump later announced that South Africa would not be invited to the next G20 meeting, which he intends to host at his family-owned Miami golf course.

In a televised address, Ramaphosa refuted the US reasoning for its "non-participation," stating it was based on "groundless and false allegations that South Africa is committing genocide against Afrikaners and seizing land from white citizens."

"This is outright misinformation about our nation," the president declared during the SABC broadcast. "We understand that the position of the US administration has been shaped by an ongoing disinformation campaign conducted by groups and individuals within South Africa, in the US, and internationally."

He added, "Those spreading false narratives are threatening South Africa's national interests, harming jobs, and weakening relations with one of our key international partners."

Despite the tension, Ramaphosa emphasized that South Africa remains open "to maintain dialogue with the United States government, approaching it with mutual respect and dignity as sovereign nations."

Author: Sophia Brooks