Former U.S. President Donald Trump has stirred global attention by saying South Africa no longer deserves to be part of the G20. This comment comes just as South Africa prepares to host world leaders in Johannesburg for this year’s summit. Despite his criticism, South African officials remain confident and say the summit will be successful. Trump will not attend and is sending Vice-President JD Vance instead.
The South African government responded calmly, avoiding a direct fight but making it clear that claims of white persecution in the country are false. Authorities noted that crime statistics do not show whites face more violent attacks than other groups. Trump has long accused South Africa of unfair treatment of white farmers, a claim South Africa strongly rejects. Government spokespersons say the idea of a “white genocide” has been repeatedly disproven.
Experts say removing a country from the G20 is almost impossible because the group runs on consensus, not a formal constitution. Analysts also note that other major powers — like China and the European Union — are unlikely to support excluding South Africa. The situation is very different from Russia’s suspension from the G8 in 2014, because the G20 includes more countries and complex alliances that make decisions like expulsion far harder.
South Africa has framed its G20 leadership around unity, equality, and sustainable development. Officials say the country’s journey from apartheid to democracy makes it uniquely positioned to promote global fairness and cooperation. The government says it will continue focusing on development, bridging inequality, and advocating for African interests on the world stage.
This latest disagreement adds to rising diplomatic tension between Washington and Pretoria. Earlier this year, the U.S. offered refugee status to Afrikaners, and South Africa was hit with high tariffs on exports. Attempts to ease tensions — including a high-level visit to Washington — did not stop Trump’s claims about discrimination against white farmers. Still, South Africa insists it will successfully host the G20 and maintain strong international partnerships.
