South African President Cyril Ramaphosa and US President Donald Trump held talks on April 24. They agreed to collaborate to end the war in Ukraine and improve bilateral relations.
Ramaphosa announced the conversation on X. This marks the first public interaction between the two leaders since Trump's return to office in January. Ramaphosa emphasized a shared desire to foster "good relations" between the two nations.
Relations between the United States and South Africa have been strained recently. This stems from disagreements over land expropriation policy. The Trump administration has criticized this policy.
Trump halted US federal funding to South Africa in February. He also expelled its ambassador. The White House cited Pretoria's genocide case against Israel at the International Court of Justice (ICJ).
Pretoria rejects these allegations. They maintain that the land policy is lawful and constitutional. South African officials dismissed Trump's response to the ICJ case as "deeply politicized."
The April 24 phone call represents a breakthrough. It potentially lays the groundwork for a face-to-face summit. The two leaders also discussed the Ukraine war.
Ramaphosa reiterated his commitment to international peace efforts. His administration has refused to condemn Russia outright. This reflects a historical loyalty and a belief that peace requires diplomacy.
Earlier in the week, Ramaphosa spoke with Russian President Vladimir Putin. Putin welcomed South Africa's role as a mediator. He expressed support for diplomatic initiatives that acknowledge Russia's security concerns.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky visited South Africa. He cut his trip short due to Russian attacks on Kyiv. Zelensky insists on Russia's full withdrawal from Ukrainian territories for any peace agreement.
The possibility of a future meeting between Trump and Ramaphosa may stabilize relations. This depends on compromise on polarizing issues. The April 24 conversation marks a pivotal moment in US-South Africa relations.
The call establishes communication and a willingness to address contentious issues. Pretoria's diplomatic overtures underscore its ambition to act as a bridge-builder.