President Ramaphosa Set to Address Diplomatic Strains in Meeting with President Trump

WASHINGTON — South African President Cyril Ramaphosa has arrived in Washington, D.C., ahead of a high-stakes meeting with U.S. President Donald Trump at the White House on Wednesday. The visit is seen as an attempt to reset bilateral relations and address rising diplomatic tensions between the two countries.

The working meeting comes amid a turbulent period in U.S.–South Africa relations, particularly following controversial remarks by President Trump about the treatment of White Afrikaner farmers in South Africa claims that South Africa has firmly rejected as misinformation.

“We are here to advance South Africa’s national interests and correct misconceptions,” a senior official in Ramaphosa’s delegation said.

President Ramaphosa is expected to raise concerns about U.S. trade tariffs affecting South African exports, while also reaffirming his administration’s commitment to human rights, inclusive land reform, and multilateral cooperation.

The White House has not issued a formal statement on the agenda, but sources say the leaders will also touch on security partnerships, economic investment, and Africa’s role in global diplomacy.

This is Ramaphosa’s first official visit to the U.S. since tensions began escalating earlier this year. Analysts say the outcome of the meeting could set the tone for future engagement between Washington and Pretoria.