The White House has instructed federal agencies to pause their preparations for the G20 meeting that is set to occur later this year, amidst protests regarding the treatment of white South African farmers.
Officials from the White House referenced Trump’s earlier statements, suggesting that the U.S. might withdraw from the G20 event in Johannesburg planned for November.
“I believe there is a G20 meeting happening there. I’m not sure what we should do unless the situation resolves itself,” Trump stated. “It’s a genocide—something that people seem reluctant to discuss. It’s a tragic situation where farmers are being harmed, and they just happen to be white.”
Trump also expressed his intention to engage in discussions with South African leaders next week.
The Washington Post was the first to report on the decision to suspend agency involvement at the summit.
The annual G20 serves as a platform for the world’s significant economic leaders to address global challenges concerning finance, climate change, and more.
In recent months, Trump has maintained a critical stance towards South Africa, claiming that the white minority is being unfairly targeted. He had previously signed an executive order in February, which tied foreign aid to claims that the government was disadvantaging certain landowners.
This week, the Trump administration accepted a flight carrying 49 African refugees, a decision that has attracted attention given the broader limitations on refugee programs and the administration’s strict immigration policies.
South African officials have dismissed the assertions made by the Trump administration, stating that there is no substantiated evidence of genocide or persecution occurring within the country.
