November 27, 2025, Washington, D.C.
South Africa’s Exclusion Sparks Diplomatic Shockwaves Ahead of Miami G20
Former U.S. President and current Republican presidential nominee Donald Trump has stirred international controversy after declaring during a campaign rally in Tampa, Florida, that South Africa “will not be invited” to the 2026 G20 Summit, scheduled to be hosted in Miami next November.
Trump’s remarks, delivered on November 26, 2025, have triggered intense diplomatic discussions across world capitals, with analysts warning that such a move would set a new precedent in global economic diplomacy if implemented.
“South Africa is not coming to the G20 in Miami—period,” Trump told supporters to loud applause. “We’re not inviting countries that undermine American interests.”
The statement comes despite the G20 traditionally operating through a consensus-based membership system, where invitations are decided collectively rather than unilaterally by the host nation.
Pretoria Seeks Clarity
South Africa’s Department of International Relations and Cooperation (DIRCO) responded cautiously, stating on Thursday morning that it had not received any official communication from U.S. authorities regarding possible exclusion.
DIRCO spokesperson Sipho Mbele said the government was “seeking immediate formal clarification” from Washington.
“South Africa remains a permanent member of the G20, and no single country can revoke that status,” Mbele said.
“We will await official correspondence rather than react to campaign rhetoric.”
Analysts note that Trump’s remarks may be part of his increasingly populist foreign policy rhetoric ahead of the 2026 U.S. elections. However, the implications—if applied—would be far-reaching.
Economic and Political Implications
The G20 is one of the world’s most important economic forums, representing roughly 85% of global GDP. South Africa, the continent’s only permanent G20 member, has played a crucial role in representing African economic interests since joining in 1999.
Removing South Africa from the 2026 Summit could:
- Strain U.S.–Africa diplomatic relations
- Undermine Africa’s representation in global economic decision-making
- Ignite domestic political debate within South Africa
- Trigger backlash from fellow BRICS nations
Dr. Thandi Mokoena, a professor of international relations at the University of Pretoria, warned that Trump’s statement—though possibly symbolic—could reshape geopolitical alignments.
“If a host nation attempts to unilaterally exclude a member, it weakens the entire G20 structure,” she said.
“This could further deepen the divide between Western and BRICS-aligned states.”
Global Reaction Expected
Officials from the African Union and several BRICS+ countries are reportedly preparing statements. Beijing and Moscow, in particular, are expected to condemn the remarks, viewing them as an attempt to marginalize Global South influence.
Trump has previously clashed with South Africa’s government, accusing it of “bad trade practices” and “anti-Western alliances” during campaign speeches.
With the 2026 G20 Summit set for Miami from November 15–17, the coming months will determine whether Trump’s comments translate into policy—should he return to office—or remain political rhetoric.
For now, South Africa insists it remains a full participant.
“Until formally informed otherwise, South Africa will attend the Miami summit as scheduled,” DIRCO emphasized.
