South Africa’s president has confirmed that the United States is reconsidering its decision to skip the G20 summit, just days before the event begins. Cyril Ramaphosa said discussions were underway to determine how Washington might engage. He emphasized, however, that Trump’s personal attendance has not been confirmed.
The initial boycott threat stemmed from Trump’s accusations that South Africa mistreats white Afrikaners and white farmers. South African officials strongly rejected the claims, insisting they misrepresented the country’s social landscape. Despite the dispute, the government continued preparations for hosting the first G20 meeting on African soil.
Ramaphosa described the US approach as a productive development, even if it came at the eleventh hour. He noted that constructive engagement is always preferable to isolation. The president underscored that the G20’s strength lies in participation from all major economies, particularly those shaping global financial systems.
A previous diplomatic note from Washington had insisted that no G20 leaders’ declaration could be issued without the US present. South Africa objected, accusing the US of attempting to influence outcomes from the sidelines. Officials argued that such actions undermine the integrity of international consensus-building.
With the US set to assume the G20 presidency next year, Ramaphosa said global collaboration should prevail over political disagreements. He stressed that inclusive decision-making is essential for addressing challenges such as debt relief and sustainable development.