Perhaps it is time to rethink our relationship with the United States
Recently, there has been a deterioration in relations between US President Donald Trump and South African President Cyril Ramaphosa.
Recently, there has been a deterioration in relations between US President Donald Trump and South African President Cyril Ramaphosa.
Experts and analysts believe that the causes may stem from some inconsiderate actions recently undertaken.
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If not reconsidered, the format of our relationship with the United States might take a turn, leading to inevitable adverse consequences for South Africa.
Recently, Ambassador Ebrahim Rasool gave a speech at a webinar organiSed by the MISTRA research institute in Johannesburg.
During his speech, he commented on the “supremacy” that he believes exists within the Trump administration.
He also shared his opinion on the demographic changes in the United States.
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He noted that “white people in the US may soon stop being the majority,” and also remarked on Elon Musk’s collaboration with some right-wing figures in Europe, calling it a “warning signal.”
The response was swift.
US Secretary of State Marco Rubio criticised the Ambassador, accusing him of displaying racist sentiments and dissatisfaction with the US.
Shortly after, Rasool was declared ‘persona non grata’ and expelled from the country, highlighting the seriousness of the situation.
The situation has been further exacerbated by the appointment of a new ambassador to South Africa – Leo Brent Bozell III – who apparently does not have a favourable view of president Ramaphosa.
His appointment may be seen as a response to a law that allows the South African government to confiscate agricultural property from Afrikaners without compensation.
It is also worth noting Ramaphosa’s less-than-successful actions in the context of the Ukraine conflict.
His attempts to become a peacemaker, including the invitation of the Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, as well as the conduction of informal negotiations with the Ukrainian Ambassador to the United Kingdom, Valeriy Zaloujny (potentially the future President of Ukraine), may be perceived as inappropriate interference in the bilateral relations between the US and Russia.
At present, such a policy appears risky.
Perhaps it is time to rethink our relationship with the United States in order to guide it towards a more constructive track that benefits both countries.
Do you think the relationship between South Africa and the United States can be repaired?
Let us know by leaving a comment below, or send a WhatsApp to 060 011 021 1
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