US President Donald Trump has pledged a swift path to American citizenship for South African farmers, following his decision to cut aid to the country over what he calls unfair treatment of white landowners.
Trump made the announcement on his Truth Social platform, where he criticized South Africa’s new land policies. He claimed the government was seizing farmland from Afrikaners without compensation and declared the country unsafe for white farmers. As a result, he ordered an immediate halt to US financial assistance to South Africa.
His directive instructed all US government agencies to stop distributing aid to the country. This move came after South Africa took Israel to the International Court of Justice (ICJ), accusing it of genocide against Palestinians. The US government cited human rights concerns and South Africa’s Expropriation Act as reasons for the aid suspension.
The Expropriation Act, passed in early 2024, allows the South African government to take land without compensation under certain conditions. Trump’s order condemned the law, stating it unfairly targeted Afrikaners and fueled violence against them. His statement also accused the South African government of creating policies that disadvantage white citizens in jobs, education, and business.
Trump’s position aligns with that of billionaire Elon Musk, who has frequently spoken out against South Africa’s land policies. Musk, who was born in South Africa, has accused the government of racism and claimed white farmers face persecution. He has also criticized the country’s refusal to allow his Starlink satellite internet service to operate, alleging racial bias against him.
Despite these claims, South African courts have rejected allegations of “white genocide,” calling them baseless. Officials insist the land reform laws aim to correct historical injustices and are not racially motivated.
Trump’s promise to welcome South African farmers into the US is already stirring debate. While his supporters see it as a stand against discrimination, critics argue it misrepresents the situation and could strain diplomatic ties.