South African President Cyril Ramaphosa Responds to Donald Trump’s Dollar-Dominance Warning as G20 Presidency Begins
South African President Cyril Ramaphosa has committed to strengthening diplomatic relations with the United States amid a fiery warning from US President-elect Donald Trump regarding BRICS+ initiatives to reduce dependency on the US dollar. Ramaphosa’s remarks come as he takes over the presidency of the G20 from Brazil’s Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva.
Trump’s Warning to BRICS Nations
During a weekend address, Trump criticized BRICS countries for discussing alternatives to the US dollar in global trade, labelling such moves as threats to American economic dominance. He vowed to impose 100% tariffs and restrict access to the US market for any country attempting to introduce a new BRICS currency or reduce reliance on the dollar.
Trump stated on X (formerly Twitter):
“We require a commitment from these countries that they will neither create a new BRICS currency nor back any other currency to replace the mighty US dollar, or they will face 100% tariffs and should expect to say goodbye to selling into the wonderful US economy.”
South Africa’s Diplomatic Stance
South Africa’s Department of International Relations and Cooperation (DIRCO) responded, with spokesperson Clayson Monyela clarifying that BRICS discussions focus on enabling member nations to trade in their respective currencies, not creating a unified BRICS currency.
Speaking during an ANC by-election campaign in Limpopo, Ramaphosa addressed Trump’s comments, emphasizing the importance of diplomacy over confrontation.
“We prefer that we sit down and rely on diplomacy and have proper discussions. Some of these matters are said on these platforms. In the end, we also have a message to put across,” Ramaphosa said.
South Africa’s Role in the G20
As the new G20 president, Ramaphosa aims to mediate and foster cooperation between the US and BRICS nations. He highlighted the value of dialogue and collaboration, promising to engage constructively with Trump’s administration on bilateral and global issues.
The G20 presidency allows South Africa to lead discussions on key global matters, including trade, climate change, and geopolitical tensions. Ramaphosa affirmed his readiness to work with all member nations, including the US, to find mutually beneficial solutions.
Broader Implications for US-SA Relations
Trump’s return to the White House has reignited attention on US-South Africa relations, particularly against the backdrop of their differing stances on Israel and Palestine. Trump’s strong support for Israel contrasts with South Africa’s efforts to hold Israel accountable for alleged human rights violations in Gaza.
While challenges remain, Ramaphosa’s commitment to diplomacy could pave the way for improved relations between the two nations, ensuring that South Africa’s leadership in the G20 promotes global stability.
