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Why did Trump ambush the South African president?

Cyril Ramaphosa kept his cool despite the onslaught

South Africa's President Cyril Ramaphosa went to the White House in hope of a ‘reset’ with the USA on trade and asylum laws. What he got was a choreographed presentation from Donald Trump with allegations of a white genocide taking place in South Africa, with stark parallels to the infamous Zelensky meeting in the Oval Office.

Justin, Anthony, and Sarah convene to check the fact on Trump’s assertions, and discuss why the confrontation might really be a message to his MAGA supporters.

Plus, Justin speaks to Robyn Cunrow, former CNN correspondent in Johannesburg and host of the Searching for America podcast, to find out more about the relationship between the US and South Africa.

HOSTS:
- Justin Webb, Radio 4 Presenter
- Sarah Smith, North America Editor
- Anthony Zurcher, North America Correspondent

GUEST:
- Robyn Curnow, former CNN Africa correspondent

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This episode was made by George Dabby with Rufus Gray, Alix Pickles and Grace Reeve. The technical producer was Mike Regaard. The series producer is Purvee Pattni. The senior news editor is Sam Bonham.

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38 minutes

Last on

Fri 23 May 2025 23:00

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  • Fri 23 May 2025 23:00

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