Staff Reporter

A diplomatic conflict escalated yesterday, just two days before the Group of 20 (G20) summit in Johannesburg, as South African President Cyril Ramaphosa announced the US had signaled a potential reversal of its boycott, only to be immediately and vehemently denied by the White House.

President Ramaphosa, speaking at a joint news conference with European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen and European Council President António Costa, stated that Pretoria had received a notice from the United States about a change of mind, about participating in one shape or form or other in the summit.

He described the late communication as a positive sign, despite the logistical challenges it presented.The White House, however, swiftly dismissed Ramaphosa’s claim.

A US official told reporters, “This is fake news. The chargé d’affaires in Pretoria will attend the handover ceremony as a formality, but the United States is not joining G20 discussions.”

White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt later reinforced this position, further accusing Ramaphosa of running his mouth with false claims.

The Trump administration’s initial decision to boycott the first G20 summit held in Africa was rooted in allegations that the post-apartheid South African government was discriminating against its white minority.

The only confirmed US presence is the chargé d’affaires, who is slated to attend the formal ceremony marking the handover of the G20 presidency from South Africa to the United States.

President Trump has previously rejected South Africa’s summit agenda, which focuses on promoting solidarity, helping developing nations adapt to climate change, transitioning to clean energy, and cutting excessive debt.