Bulwark Takes

"I Started to Die." Trump Talks "White Genocide" With South African President in the Oval Office

May 21, 2025
Holly Berkley Fletcher, a former CIA analyst with deep insights into African politics, joins the discussion on a controversial Oval Office meeting between Donald Trump and South African President Cyril Ramaphosa. They delve into the notion of 'white genocide' in South Africa, tracing its origins in far-right propaganda. The conversation also covers economic tensions, the challenge of racial dynamics, and the impact of apartheid-induced inequalities. With humor and expertise, Fletcher dismantles misconceptions surrounding crime and victimhood narratives in the region.
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ANECDOTE

Ramaphosa Debunks White Genocide Myth

  • Cyril Ramaphosa showed Trump videos of supposed farm attacks on white farmers, trying to counter the "white genocide" narrative.
  • The footage included fringe figures and extremist voices that did not represent the government.
INSIGHT

Trump's Racial Bias Shown

  • Trump's demeanor toward Ramaphosa reflected racial bias, cutting him off and favoring white speakers.
  • Trump listened and perked up significantly when white South Africans spoke, even if contradicting him.
INSIGHT

Racial Employment Gap Deepens Tension

  • Black unemployment in South Africa is around 40%, while white unemployment is about 1%.
  • This disparity sustains intense racial tension and contributes to high violent crime rates mainly affecting poor black communities.
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