Mr Ramaphosa kept his cool. But the episode underlined Donald Trump’s warped views of South Africa—and how hard it will be to change them. The Trump administration has cut aid to Africa’s largest economy and seems set to cancel the preferential trade terms enjoyed by South Africa (and many other countries in the continent).

US President Donald Trump confronted South African President Cyril Ramaphosa in the Oval Office with a forceful, reality-TV style ambush. After cordial greetings, Trump abruptly ordered the lights to be dimmed and played a video.

President Cyril Ramaphosa's meeting with Donald Trump on Wednesday seeks to address rising tensions over 'genocide' claims against white Afrikaners.

President Cyril Ramaphosa has described his bilateral meeting with US President Donald Trump as “robust and fruitful”.

The EFF has slammed the meeting between Donald Trump and Cyril Ramaphosa, saying it was used to vilify Julius Malema, but many found the party's comments hilarious.

This sit-down comes at a time when South Africa's relationship with the United States is seemingly strained, making these discussions all the more significant.

Donald J. Trump Transcripts White House Calendar White House Press Releases Remarks: Donald Trump Holds a Bilat with Cyril Ramaphosa of South Africa - May 21, 2025

South African President Cyril Ramaphosa showed why he earned a reputation as a skilled negotiator in his clash with President Donald Trump.