SA Dusted by Ramaphosa’s African Reactions to Donald Trump’s Statements During Oval Meeting
South Africans Captivated by Ramaphosa and Trump’s Heated Meeting on Alleged “White Genocide”
President Cyril Ramaphosa’s meeting with former US President Donald Trump on 21 May 2025 left South Africans buzzing, particularly over Ramaphosa’s unmistakably African reactions to Trump’s accusations.
The discussion, held at the Oval Office and streamed live, centered on Trump’s claims of a “white genocide” in South Africa—an allegation repeatedly debunked by experts, politicians, and business leaders like Johan Rupert, John Steenhuisen, and Zingiswa Losi.
Ramaphosa, who flew to the US shortly after 49 Afrikaners relocated there, maintained his composure despite Trump’s persistent assertions. At one point, Trump jokingly remarked that he would have appreciated a gifted plane from Ramaphosa, to which the South African president dryly replied, “I’m sorry, I don’t have a plane to give you.” The response amused many Mzansi viewers.
A sharp-eyed South African woman captured Ramaphosa’s subtle yet distinctly African-coded reactions—shifting emotions, fidgeting, and diplomatic smiles—sparking a viral discussion online. Many praised his patience, with one TikTok user commenting, “Cupcake said, ‘That orange man lacks listening skills.’”
Trump doubled down on his claims, presenting a 2018 Julius Malema rally video and outdated news clippings as “evidence,” despite Ramaphosa’s firm rebuttals. Social media erupted with reactions, with @Segno noting, “This beef is between Malema and Musk. That’s it.” Others, like @Gontse Muthusi, humorously referenced Ramaphosa’s restrained sarcasm: “He wanted to say, ‘Letoya’s lies.’”
Despite the tension, South Africans applauded Ramaphosa for his diplomatic composure and efforts to maintain strong US-SA relations. The meeting also touched on trade discussions and Trump’s potential attendance at the upcoming G20 Summit.
Source: Briefly News