South Africa has sharply criticized the United States amid reports that Washington is considering accepting white Afrikaners as refugees. The potential resettlement could begin as early as next week, although the White House has yet to confirm the details. This development comes at a time of strained relations between South African President Cyril Ramaphosa and former US President Donald Trump, who has been vocal about his discontent with Ramaphosa’s leadership.
In a document obtained by CBS News, it is revealed that the resettlement of Afrikaners is being prioritized by the Trump administration. The US government has not confirmed the exact timing of the resettlement process. However, this move follows Trump’s controversial stance on the issue, particularly after he criticized South Africa’s land redistribution policies, which he claims unfairly target white Afrikaners.
South Africa’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs responded on Friday, labeling the resettlement plan as “politically motivated.” They also emphasized that it was an attempt to undermine the nation’s “constitutional democracy.” The South African government has consistently denied allegations that white South Africans face systemic racial discrimination. They have also rejected claims from some groups, which argue that white farmers are being targeted due to their race.
In February, Trump signed an executive order that described Afrikaners as victims of “racial discrimination” and opened the door for potential resettlement in the United States. The South African government, while expressing concern, stated that it would not prevent the departure of those selected for resettlement, but insisted that the US provide assurances that those chosen have undergone thorough vetting and do not face any outstanding criminal charges.
Despite ongoing tensions, the South African government pointed to crime statistics, arguing that no racial group has been disproportionately affected by farm violence. However, some advocacy groups representing white farmers in South Africa continue to claim that racial motives are behind violent attacks on their community.
A US State Department spokesperson confirmed to the BBC that the US is interviewing individuals interested in resettlement and prioritizing Afrikaners who are alleged victims of racial discrimination. However, the spokesperson refrained from confirming a specific start date for the resettlement process.
The US has also accused South Africa of unfairly seizing land from white farmers without compensation, a charge Pretoria has repeatedly denied. As tensions simmer, US officials have announced a press event scheduled for Monday at Dulles Airport in Virginia, where they plan to welcome the first group of refugees from South Africa.
