South African President Cyril Ramaphosa is set to meet with President Trump at the White House next week to address various issues of mutual interest, as confirmed by his office. This meeting comes at a crucial time as relations between the U.S. and South Africa have reached a low point. Recent tensions have been fueled by Trump’s claims of unrest in South Africa, leading to the arrival of the first group of white South African refugees in the U.S.

Ramaphosa’s upcoming visit aims to reset the strategic relations between the two countries, following Trump’s decision to cut all aid to South Africa earlier in the year. The executive order cited South Africa’s support for Palestinians and alleged persecution of white South Africans without evidence. Refugee nonprofits noted the extraordinary reception given to the arriving Afrikaners, sparking strong reactions from Ramaphosa.

The South African President criticized Trump and Elon Musk for their claims of unfair treatment towards Afrikaners, emphasizing that South Africa has never expelled its colonizers. Ramaphosa previously spoke with Trump over the phone to clarify the issue but looks to further address the matter in person during the upcoming meeting.

Despite expert opinions contradicting Trump’s assertions about South Africa, the U.S. administration has continued its critique, even going as far as expelling South Africa’s ambassador earlier this year. Ramaphosa’s experience as a seasoned negotiator will be crucial in navigating the discussions at the White House, with concerns raised by some South Africans regarding the potential outcome of the meeting.