President Ramaphosa's Diplomatic Move: Engaging Trump Without The Drama

Holifil

31 Mar, 2025

President Cyril Ramaphosa plans to send a delegation around the world, including the United States, to foster diplomatic ties.
He emphasized the importance of formal engagements with President Donald Trump’s administration, avoiding public conflicts.
South Africans are divided: some applaud his diplomatic approach, while others criticize him for lacking assertiveness.

Tebogo Mokwena, a seasoned political analyst with Briefly News, has spent nine years delivering insightful local and international political analysis and interviews for Daily Sun and Vutivi Business News in South Africa.

Cyril Ramaphosa aims to engage in constructive discussions with Donald Trump. Images: Rodger Bosch / AFP via Getty Images and Anna Moneymaker/Getty Images. Source: Getty Images

WESTERN CAPE — President Cyril Ramaphosa has made it clear that he intends to handle relations with the United States through formal channels, steering clear of public mud-slinging. This decision comes after U.S. President Donald Trump announced plans to cut all aid to South Africa. Ramaphosa's approach reflects a desire to strengthen diplomatic ties rather than engage in contentious public disputes.

Ramaphosa's Approach to Diplomacy with Trump

In a recent address at the Presidential Golf Challenge in Cape Town on February 7, 2025, Ramaphosa outlined his strategy for engaging with the United States. According to Eyewitness News, the President emphasized the importance of maintaining a respectful and professional relationship with one of South Africa's key trade partners. He reiterated his commitment to formal and constructive dialogue, avoiding public spats that could damage bilateral relations.

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Furthermore, Ramaphosa extended this diplomatic approach to other leaders, such as Rwandan President Paul Kagame. Kagame had recently accused Ramaphosa of using the South African National Defence Force (SANDF) to protect his own mineral interests. Despite these allegations, Ramaphosa chose not to engage in public arguments, opting instead for a more measured and diplomatic response.

Cyril Ramaphosa insists on engaging with Trump through formal channels, avoiding public drama. Image: Rodger Bosch/ AFP via Getty Images. Source: Getty Images

South Africans Weigh In on Ramaphosa's Diplomatic Stance

The President's diplomatic approach has sparked a lively debate among South Africans. Some citizens have taken to social media platforms like X to express their opinions. While many commend Ramaphosa for his efforts to foster positive international relations, others argue that his approach lacks the necessary assertiveness.

Zamo KaMzilikaziKhumalo commented, "He should have taken this approach much earlier, before all the populist stunts." Similarly, G Monsta remarked, "You told him you didn't need him, so there's no harm in reaching out now." Ross Goodall added, "Maybe he should have initiated these discussions before antagonizing them during his State of the Nation Address."

On the other hand, several South Africans have voiced their support for Ramaphosa's diplomatic strategy. Ntokozo Masuku praised the President, saying, "Ramaphosa is making the right move. South Africa must engage on its own terms, not through media theatrics." Tapera ES echoed this sentiment, stating, "This is the best move. A good solution." The MBA Hun also chimed in, calling it "True leadership."

Donald Trump's Executive Order: Offering Refugee Status to Afrikaners

In a related development, U.S. President Donald Trump signed an executive order granting refugee status to Afrikaners. This move came amid accusations that the South African government was implementing policies aimed at oppressing the Afrikaner community. The order explicitly states that Afrikaners will be eligible for refugee status under U.S. laws and further accuses South Africa of threatening U.S. foreign policy interests. This decision has sparked significant outrage among South Africans, who view it as an unwarranted interference in their country's internal affairs.

As South Africa navigates these complex diplomatic waters, the nation remains divided over the best approach to managing its international relations. While some applaud Ramaphosa's diplomatic efforts, others believe a more assertive stance is necessary. Only time will tell whether this strategy yields positive results for the country.