• As France drops South Africa’s invite to G7 summit

Frank Okon

Tensions between United States and South Africa have escalated amid a diplomatic dispute linked to the upcoming G7 Leaders’ Summit in France.

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The strain follows reports that the administration of Donald Trump is unwilling to participate in the summit if a South African delegation is present. South African officials allege that Washington pressured France to withdraw an invitation previously extended to President Cyril Ramaphosa.

Presidential spokesperson Vincent Magwenya said Pretoria had been informed that Paris rescinded the invitation after sustained pressure from the United States, including a possible boycott threat. These claims have not been publicly confirmed by US authorities.

The dispute marks the latest development in a broader deterioration of relations between the two countries. Differences have emerged over several key global issues, including the war in Ukraine, the Israel–Gaza conflict, and trade policies.

Washington has been particularly critical of South Africa’s stance on the Israel–Gaza conflict, especially after Pretoria filed a case against Israel at the International Court of Justice. The United States, a close ally of Israel, has opposed the move.

Earlier, French President Emmanuel Macron had reportedly invited Ramaphosa to the G7 summit during discussions at the G20 summit hosted in South Africa. However, the United States declined to attend that gathering, a decision analysts say reflected growing diplomatic tensions.

Relations have further been strained by remarks from Trump, including claims about the treatment of white South Africans and criticism of the country’s Black economic empowerment policies.

Despite the current dispute, South African officials insist that ties with France remain strong and have reiterated their commitment to maintaining constructive engagement with the United States. Magwenya said bilateral relations are expected to endure beyond the current US administration.