Mon May 19 06:40:59 UTC 2025: Okay, here’s a summary of the text rewritten as a news article:

**Headline: Tensions High as South Africa’s Ramaphosa Visits US to ‘Reset’ Frosty Relations**

**Washington D.C.** – South African President Cyril Ramaphosa is set to begin a state visit to the United States on Monday, May 19th, in an effort his government describes as a critical attempt to “reset” a relationship that has reportedly reached its lowest point in decades. The visit comes amid significant disagreements between the two nations on a range of issues, including the treatment of white South Africans, US aid cuts, and South Africa’s stance on the conflict in Gaza.

The relationship has been strained by President Trump’s recent welcoming of a group of white South Africans as “refugees,” following claims that they are facing persecution and even “genocide” in their home country. Ramaphosa’s government vehemently denies these allegations, pointing out that while whites make up a small percentage of the population, they still control a disproportionate amount of the country’s land.

The talks between Ramaphosa and Trump, scheduled for Wednesday, May 21st, are expected to address these sensitive issues directly. Of particular concern is South Africa’s Expropriation Bill, which allows for land confiscation, potentially without compensation, for redistribution to marginalized groups. Trump and Elon Musk have voiced strong criticism of this policy, fearing it could lead to unfair treatment of white landowners.

Economic tensions are also on the agenda. The US has implemented aid cuts to South Africa, citing concerns over “unjust racial discrimination” and South Africa’s decision to bring a genocide case against Israel at the International Court of Justice (ICJ) regarding the war in Gaza. Furthermore, tariffs imposed by the US on South African goods, including a significant tariff on vehicles, have further exacerbated the economic strain.

South Africa’s government filed its genocide case against Israel at the International Court of Justice (ICJ) on December 29, 2023, accusing it of “genocidal acts” during its assaults on Gaza, to the anger of Israel’s ally and major weapons supplier, the US.

The ongoing wars in Ukraine and Gaza are also expected to be discussed. While South Africa has maintained a neutral stance on the Russia-Ukraine war, emphasizing dialogue, the US has taken a more active role in attempting to mediate the conflict.

Despite these challenges, South Africa hopes to use this visit to strengthen its relationship with the US, its second-largest trading partner. The future of the Africa Growth Opportunity Act (AGOA), which provides duty-free access to the US market for many African countries, including South Africa, is also up for renewal this year and hangs in the balance.

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