On Friday, former US President Donald Trump signed an executive order halting foreign aid to South Africa, targeting the nation’s controversial law that permits the government to seize farmland from White farmers without compensation. Trump also condemned South Africa’s stance on Israel and its involvement in the Gaza conflict, calling it a breach of human rights. The order specifically prohibits US agencies from providing financial aid to South Africa unless deemed essential.
Trump accused South Africa of disregarding the rights of its citizens, leading to human rights violations. He also directed support for Afrikaners (descendants of European settlers) who are fleeing South Africa due to racial discrimination.
South Africa’s government, led by President Cyril Ramaphosa, strongly rejected Trump’s claims, dismissing the order as inaccurate and a form of propaganda. The government also pointed out the irony of offering refuge to Afrikaners, one of the wealthiest groups in the country, while vulnerable immigrants to the US face deportation.
The dispute comes in the context of South Africa’s ongoing land reform, which aims to address historical inequalities but has been criticized for its focus on land expropriation without compensation. The law signed by Ramaphosa in January 2025 has sparked widespread debate about the country’s colonial history, poverty, and unemployment rates, especially among Black South Africans.
Trump’s order reflects growing tension between the US and South Africa, including South Africa’s controversial position on Israel and ties with Iran. Despite the diplomatic conflict, President Ramaphosa stood firm, asserting that South Africa would not be intimidated by international pressure.
