Rubio Skips G20 Meeting Citing Anti-American Policies of South Africa
U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio will not attend the G20 meeting in South Africa, citing anti-American policies from the host nation. His absence marks a significant deviation from traditional diplomatic engagements. Trump’s administration had recently halted aid to South Africa, exacerbating tensions. While analysts express optimism regarding South Africa’s G20 leadership, the situation illustrates the challenges in U.S.-South Africa relations.
U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio will not attend the upcoming G20 meeting of foreign ministers in Johannesburg, South Africa, after denouncing the host nation’s policies as anti-American. Instead, Rubio is returning to the United States following his visit to the Middle East, where he held discussions centered on the Ukraine conflict with Russian officials. Rubio’s absence is significant, particularly as a U.S. secretary of state typically seeks to leverage such international gatherings to foster support for U.S. interests.
Rubio has been critical of South Africa’s G20 presidency, which has emphasized themes of solidarity, equality, and sustainability, aimed at addressing the needs of poorer nations. His comments reflect a broader disconnection from international organizations under the current administration. The U.S. will be represented at a lower level during this meeting, with top diplomats, including those from Europe and Russia, expected to attend.
Adding to the tensions, President Donald Trump recently halted U.S. aid to South Africa, condemning its land laws as discriminatory and labeling its foreign policy as anti-American. Rubio confirmed he would also miss the G20 summit in November, stating such gatherings are being used to promote diversity and climate agendas, which he views as a distraction from American priorities.
Despite Rubio’s absence, analysts suggest that South Africa’s leadership at the G20 can still foster progress, as it has the backing of nations like the EU, Russia, and China. South African Foreign Minister Ronald Lamola remarked that the U.S. presence in some form would still be recognized at the meeting, emphasizing that Rubio’s decision should not be interpreted as a total boycott.
The shifting dynamics highlight a deterioration in relations between the U.S. and South Africa, a key economic partner in Africa. Analysts note the importance of balancing U.S. interests and recognizing the different diplomatic priorities among G20 members, as cooperation remains crucial in addressing global challenges.
In summary, Secretary of State Marco Rubio’s decision to skip the G20 meeting in South Africa is indicative of the strained relations between the U.S. and South Africa. Rubio’s criticisms of South African policies and Trump’s suspension of aid reflect a broader dissatisfaction with the current administration’s approach to international diplomacy. Despite his absence, there may still be progress under South Africa’s G20 leadership, reaffirming the importance of multilateral dialogue.
Original Source: apnews.com
