South Africa has strongly condemned US President Donald Trump’s threat to cut aid, asserting that developed nations should not use financial assistance to pressure or intimidate developing countries.
Mineral and Petroleum Resources Minister Gwede Mantashe criticized Trump’s remarks, emphasizing that no country should be bullied based on its economic status.
“A country’s development stage should not be a reason for being bullied. Every nation must be allowed to grow without coercion,” Mantashe told local broadcaster Newzroom Afrika.
His response followed Trump’s Sunday statement on Truth Social, where he threatened to halt funding to South Africa over allegations of land confiscation and discrimination against “certain classes of people.”
Ramaphosa Rejects Trump’s Claims
Trump accused South Africa of seizing land and violating human rights, claiming that the mainstream media was ignoring the issue.
However, President Cyril Ramaphosa refuted these allegations, clarifying that the newly signed Expropriation Act is a constitutionally guided legal process designed to ensure fair land access.
“The South African government has not confiscated any land,” Ramaphosa said in a statement on Monday.
US Urged to Use Diplomacy
Mantashe further criticized the US for making public accusations instead of addressing concerns through diplomatic channels.
“The US should engage through official diplomatic means rather than publicly attacking South Africa and expecting compliance because they are a global power,” he said.
Calls to Leverage Africa’s Minerals
Speaking at the Africa Mining Investment Summit in Cape Town, Mantashe proposed a strong African response to Trump’s threats.
“Let’s mobilize Africa; let’s withhold mineral supplies to the US. If they won’t support us financially, we shouldn’t supply them with minerals,” he declared.
He pointed out that while the US talks about withdrawing funding, it continues to benefit from Africa’s vast mineral wealth.
“We are not just beggars—we have something valuable,” he concluded.