NEW DELHI: US President Donald Trump has announced that he will cut off US funding to South Africa, citing the “very bad” treatment of “certain classes of people” in the country. However, Trump did not provide specific details on the events or actions that led to this decision, leaving the nature of the issue vague.
The South African embassy in Washington has not yet responded to Trump’s comments.
The move comes amid heightened tensions between the two nations, although South Africa has been a recipient of significant US aid in recent years. In 2023, the US allocated nearly $440 million in assistance to South Africa, according to the latest government data.
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South Africa, which currently holds the G20 presidency, is set to pass the mantle to the US in the coming year.
Trump’s comments regarding South Africa’s treatment of certain groups of people are not new. In his first term, he expressed concern over unverified reports of large-scale killings of white farmers in the country. South African authorities at the time dismissed these claims as misinformation. It is unclear whether any investigation was carried out into the issue.
Trump’s close ally, billionaire entrepreneur Elon Musk, has also spoken out on the issue. Musk, who was born in South Africa, criticized a video from a far-left political party in the country singing an anti-apartheid song, accusing them of inciting violence against white South Africans.
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In addition to this latest move against South Africa, Trump has been implementing tariffs on imports from Canada, China, and Mexico. These measures, which include 25% tariffs on Canadian and Mexican goods and a 10% tariff on Chinese imports, are expected to impact US consumers, leading to higher prices for a range of products.
As the situation develops, it remains to be seen whether the US will maintain its stance on South Africa or if diplomatic efforts will bring about a resolution to the matter.