South African President Cyril Ramaphosa is set to meet with US President Donald Trump at the White House on Wednesday, 21 May, in a critical diplomatic engagement aimed at easing escalating tensions between the two countries.
Johann Rupert reportedly responsible for SA-US White House talks
The high-level meeting follows a series of moves by Trump’s administration that have strained relations with South Africa — including cutting aid, expelling the country’s ambassador, Ebrahim Rasool, and granting refugee status to 49 white Afrikaners.
At the centre of this diplomatic push is Johann Rupert, South Africa’s richest man, who is reportedly in Washington and may have played a key role in facilitating the meeting.
According to reports, Rupert’s involvement reflects his concerns over how Trump has publicly framed Afrikaners, whom he referred to as “refugees,” a portrayal Rupert reportedly found both inaccurate and damaging.
Rupert, known for his extensive business interests and influence in the agricultural sector, has spoken out about the need for constructive dialogue between South Africa and the United States.
His presence alongside Ramaphosa is a clear sign of the urgency and sensitivity of the meeting, which seeks to reverse punitive measures Trump has taken in response to South Africa’s land reform policies and its case against Israel at the International Court of Justice.
Who will be attending the meeting?
Joining Ramaphosa’s delegation are several key ministers, including those responsible for international relations, agriculture, trade, and the presidency, as well as South Africa’s Special Envoy to the US.
Prominent South African figures Ernie Els and Retief Goosen — both well-known former professional golfers — are also part of the delegation.
The US side will be represented by Vice President JD Vance, Secretary of Defence Pete Hegseth, and senior advisor Dr Massaid Bolous, who handles Africa and Middle East affairs.
Secretary of State Marco Rubio will not attend the meeting due to a Senate hearing, and his deputy, Christopher Landau — known for welcoming the Afrikaner refugees — will take his place.
Notably absent will be South African-born tech billionaire Elon Musk. Despite his influence in the Trump administration and past support through significant political donations, Musk has recently said he plans to reduce his involvement in political funding.
Speaking at the Qatar Economic Forum, Musk stated, “I think I’ve done enough,” adding that he currently sees no reason for further political spending — though he didn’t rule it out in the future.
Today’s meeting, scheduled for 17:30 SAST, is seen as a make-or-break moment in SA-US relations.
Ramaphosa will try to convince Trump that South Africa remains a valuable economic and strategic partner despite recent disagreements, while Rupert’s behind-the-scenes role could prove crucial in steering the dialogue toward a more cooperative outcome.
