US Wants to Reverse G20 Boycott, Join Johannesburg Summit: South Africa’s President Ramaphosa

South African President Cyril Ramaphosa on Thursday said the United States is now seeking to participate in the upcoming G20 Summit in Johannesburg on November 22–23, despite an earlier boycott announced by the Trump administration.

The remarks come just days before world leaders gather in South Africa, putting pressure on the host nation to accommodate Washington at the “last minute.”

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US Signals ‘Change of Mind’

Speaking at a joint press conference with European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen and European Council President António Costa, Ramaphosa confirmed that the US had reached out to reverse its boycott decision.

“We have received notice from the United States… about a change of mind regarding participation,” Ramaphosa said.
“We are still in discussions to see how practical it is and what it really means.”

He added that communication from Washington arrived at “the 11th hour,” and South Africa is now working on the necessary logistics.

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Why the Trump Administration Boycotted the Summit

President Donald Trump had earlier announced that his administration would boycott the G20 meeting, accusing Ramaphosa’s government of:

• “Violently persecuting the white minority” in South Africa

• Failing to protect white farmers from alleged targeted killings

• Promoting an agenda he opposed, including climate adaptation, clean energy transition, and debt relief for developing nations

Trump has repeatedly claimed that a “white genocide” is underway in South Africa — an allegation widely dismissed by Pretoria and international observers.

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White South Africans Prioritised Under New US Refugee Policy

Last month, the Trump administration introduced a controversial refugee policy:

• Capping annual refugee admissions at 7,500

• Giving priority to white South Africans

The move sparked strong criticism from human rights groups and South African officials, who called it discriminatory and politically motivated.

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G20 Summit Preparations Continue

Banners showcasing various world leaders are already displayed across Johannesburg ahead of the summit. With the US now expressing interest in attending “in one shape or form,” Ramaphosa said the government will continue discussions “to find a practical path forward.”