EU Backs South Africa Amid US Criticism Over Land Reform Policies
BRUSSELS: The European Union has reaffirmed its strong support for South Africa’s leadership in the G20, standing by the country amid rising tensions with the United States over land reform policies. This endorsement comes ahead of the upcoming G20 summit in Johannesburg, following President Donald Trump’s recent decision to suspend US aid to South Africa.
The US halted financial assistance last week, with Trump alleging that South African law permits land seizures from white farmers—claims that the South African government has firmly denied.
Adding to the controversy, South African-born billionaire Elon Musk, a known Trump ally, has accused President Cyril Ramaphosa’s administration of enforcing “openly racist ownership laws.”
As South Africa prepares to host G20 foreign ministers in Johannesburg on February 20-21, US Secretary of State Marco Rubio has announced he will not attend, citing what he called the host nation’s “anti-American” stance.
European Council President Antonio Costa extended the EU’s backing to South Africa in a phone call with Ramaphosa, reaffirming their commitment to strengthening bilateral relations.
“During my conversation with President Cyril Ramaphosa, I emphasized the EU’s dedication to deepening cooperation with South Africa as a trusted and stable partner,” Costa wrote on X (formerly Twitter).
“I also reiterated the EU’s full support for South Africa’s G20 leadership and its commitment to advancing multilateral cooperation through the Pact for the Future to address critical global challenges.”
Costa further announced that a high-level meeting between the EU and South Africa is scheduled for March 13 to discuss ongoing partnerships and mutual concerns.
