The President’s Inbox The United States and South Africa, With Reuben Brigety
May 27, 2025
Reuben Brigety, the U.S. Ambassador to South Africa from 2022 to 2025 and President of Busara Advisors, joins James M. Lindsay to discuss the recent meeting between Presidents Trump and Ramaphosa. They unpack the complex U.S.-South Africa relations through historical and contemporary lenses. The conversation delves into the controversial claims of genocide against white farmers, South Africa's role in BRICS, and the anti-American sentiment within the ANC, highlighting the need for a strong partnership as global power dynamics shift.
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Ideological Clash Shapes Relations
- The U.S.-South Africa relationship faces deep ideological clashes under President Trump, differing from the post-apartheid reconciliation era.
- Trump's focus shifted to contentious issues like white farmer security, undermining prior goodwill.
White Genocide Claim Disputed
- South Africa has an extremely high crime rate affecting all citizens, including white farmers.
- The claim of a white genocide in South Africa is factually unsupported by local leaders and experts.
ANC's Roots of Anti-Americanism
- ANC's anti-Americanism stems from its identity as a revolutionary liberation party tied to historic allies.
- The party's reluctance to evolve foreign policy partly arises from political shifts under Jacob Zuma and entry of less ideologically disciplined members.