South African President Cyril Ramaphosa rebuked Donald Trump for cutting U.S. funding over unproven land seizure claims. Ramaphosa dismissed the allegations, emphasizing South Africa’s legal approach to land reform. He criticized Trump’s interference, stating, “South Africa does not belong to Trump,” while reaffirming the country’s commitment to justice and equity.
South African President Cyril Ramaphosa has pushed back against former U.S. President Donald Trump’s claims that the country is seizing land unfairly, dismissing the allegations as baseless. Trump recently announced that he would cut U.S. funding to South Africa, citing concerns over land confiscation, but failed to provide concrete evidence.
In response, Ramaphosa reaffirmed that South Africa remains a constitutional democracy committed to justice and fairness. He clarified that no land had been confiscated and that the recently enacted Expropriation Act aims to ensure equitable land reform within legal boundaries. The president also emphasized that South Africa does not rely on U.S. financial aid, except for PEPFAR, which supports HIV/AIDS programs.
Ramaphosa criticized Trump’s interference, stating, “South Africa does not belong to Donald Trump. He must leave us alone.” He also pointed out the historical injustices in the U.S., referencing the forced displacement of Native Americans.
The land debate remains contentious in South Africa, where white ownership still dominates three decades after apartheid. While the government’s land reform efforts have drawn criticism from figures like Elon Musk and Trump allies, Ramaphosa defended the process as lawful and necessary.
The South African leader reiterated his openness to dialogue but maintained that the country’s affairs are for its citizens to decide, not foreign leaders.
