Trump Snubs South Africa for 2026 G20, Cites Human Rights Concerns

U.S. President Donald Trump announced South Africa will not receive an invitation to the 2026 G20 Summit when the U.S. hosts, citing human rights violations against settlers. Trump criticized South Africa's handling of the G20 presidency handover, sparking regret from President Ramaphosa over strained diplomatic ties.

In a controversial move, former United States President Donald Trump declared on Friday that South Africa would be excluded from the G20 Summit invitation list for 2026, when America will preside over the event. Trump attributed his decision to alleged human rights abuses against settlers in South Africa.

During the recent G20 Leaders' Summit in Johannesburg, where notable figures like India's Prime Minister Narendra Modi were present, the United States was conspicuously absent. Trump criticized South Africa for not transferring the G20 presidency to the American Embassy representative at the closing ceremony, signaling diplomatic discord.

South African President Cyril Ramaphosa expressed regret over Trump's announcement, emphasizing his country's efforts to strengthen ties with Washington. South Africa clarified that the G20 presidency instruments were properly handed to a US Embassy official, despite the absence of a formal American delegation at the summit.

(With inputs from agencies.)