Trump cuts aid to South Africa over land reform, citing human rights violations
Washington: President Trump is ramping up his economic battles. He recently imposed a hefty 25% tariff on goods from Canada and Mexico. Now, he’s targeting South Africa, threatening to cut off all aid due to what he calls a massive human rights violation.
Trump’s anger stems from South Africa’s land reform efforts. The country is trying to address its colonial past by allowing land expropriation, sometimes without compensation. This move has sparked controversy, and Trump is not happy about it.
South African President Cyril Ramaphosa argues that these reforms are necessary to fix the legacy of colonial dispossession. However, Trump has pledged to stop the $318 million in U.S. aid until the government reconsiders its legislation.
On social media, Trump claimed South Africa is confiscating land and treating people poorly. He described the situation as a significant human rights violation that the media is ignoring.
Trump also warned Ramaphosa that the U.S. would take action. He stated he would cut off future funding until a full investigation is conducted. This isn’t the first time Trump has targeted South Africa; he previously claimed white farmers were being murdered and their land taken, though those claims lack evidence.
Elon Musk, a billionaire from South Africa, has been vocal about land ownership issues. He was born during Apartheid and became a U.S. citizen in 2002. Musk has faced criticism for his comments on the situation, including claims about genocide against white people in South Africa.
