On November 8, 2025, President Donald Trump declared that the United States would not send any government officials to participate in the Group of 20 (G20) summit scheduled to take place in South Africa later this month.

This decision stems from allegations by Trump of ongoing 'human rights abuses' in the country.

South Africa's foreign ministry has responded with a statement expressing regret over this choice, while firmly denying Trump's claims that white Afrikaners are experiencing race-based persecution within the predominantly black nation.

The ministry reaffirmed its position, stating that these allegations lack factual substantiation and emphasizing South Africa's role in promoting global unity through the G20 platform.

Trump's assertions extend beyond human rights issues to include criticisms of South Africa's domestic policies and international affairs, including its legal proceedings against Israel regarding accusations of genocide during the recent conflict in Gaza.

Earlier this year, Secretary of State Marco Rubio also boycotted a G20 foreign ministers' meeting held in South Africa, which holds the presidency from December 2024 through November 2025.

In response to the US decision, South Africa's government issued a statement highlighting its capability and commitment to fostering an inclusive future within the G20 framework.

The country looks forward to hosting what it hopes will be a successful summit, despite the controversy surrounding Trump's declaration.