JSouth Africa considers strengthening its relationship with the United States a priority, President Cyril Ramaphosa stated on Monday following the expulsion of Pretoria’s ambassador by Washington.
Tensions escalated on Friday when U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio declared Ambassador Ebrahim Rasool persona non grata in a post on X (formerly Twitter).
Rubio’s statement referenced an article from conservative news outlet Breitbart, which reported that during an online seminar, Rasool had described former President Donald Trump’s “Make America Great Again” (MAGA) movement as a “white supremacist response” to the country’s shifting demographics. Rubio denounced Rasool as a “race-baiting politician” who harbors hostility towards Trump.
President Ramaphosa acknowledged the U.S. government’s dissatisfaction, stating:
“We have noted the displeasure expressed by the United States, particularly regarding the remarks made by Ambassador Rasool. We are awaiting a full report from him.”
Despite the diplomatic rift, Ramaphosa reaffirmed South Africa’s commitment to enhancing relations with the U.S., emphasizing the country’s economic significance.
“Improving our relationship with the United States of America is a priority. They are our second-largest trading partner after China, and we will continue to work towards ensuring strong and positive relations.”
Rasool’s expulsion is the latest in a series of diplomatic strains between Washington and Pretoria, including South Africa’s legal case against Israel at the International Court of Justice (ICJ) over the war in Gaza.
Also, Rubio refused to travel to South Africa in February for a Group of 20 (G20) summit, alleging that the meeting promoted an “anti-American” agenda.
Commenting on the situation, U.S. State Department spokeswoman Tammy Bruce stated that the Trump administration’s concerns with South Africa extend beyond mere diplomatic decorum.
“South Africa is taking actions that are not in the best interest of ensuring a safe, secure, and more prosperous America, let alone the world.”
However, Bruce clarified that the U.S. is not seeking to punish South Africa but rather aims to influence its policy direction.
In response to the diplomatic fallout, Ramaphosa announced plans to engage the U.S. government through diplomatic envoys, including representatives from the business sector and government.
“As a government, it is our responsibility to advance the interests of our country and the people of South Africa.”
Despite the tensions, South Africa remains committed to fostering constructive dialogue with the United States.
