The Oval Office, typically a setting for staid diplomacy, transformed into something of a theater when South African President Cyril Ramaphosa visited. As accounts detail, President Donald Trump orchestrated a scene, dimming the lights and screening a video, all while presenting news clippings related to claims of a so-called “white genocide” in South Africa. How Ramaphosa navigated this encounter offers a glimpse into the evolving strategies of international diplomacy in the Trump era.

The atmosphere was immediately unconventional. Trump’s tactics included focusing on the widely discredited claims of persecution against white South African farmers. Adding to the spectacle was footage showing South African political figures chanting “Shoot the Boer,” a phrase laden with historical and racial significance. This presentation, observed by those present, including Elon Musk, was far from the typical exchange between heads of state. According to reports, “Wednesday’s episode with South Africa’s President Cyril Ramaphosa was a classic of its kind, with the added twist of an ambush involving dimmed lights, a lengthy video screening and stacks of news story clippings.” The intent seemed clear: to unsettle and perhaps to gain leverage.

Yet, President Ramaphosa appeared unfazed. His strategic response suggests a level of preparedness and an understanding of Trump’s tendencies. Central to his approach was the use of flattery. He brought along top golfers Ernie Els and Retief Goosen, figures celebrated in both South Africa and the United States. These figures, along with South Africa’s white agriculture minister, served as a “diplomatic golden dome,” subtly deflecting the more contentious aspects of the conversation. Ramaphosa, in effect, used representation and goodwill to counter the narrative Trump seemed intent on pushing.

Ramaphosa’s strategy was clear. “If there was Afrikaner farmer genocide, I can bet you, these three gentleman would not be here,” Ramaphosa stated, defusing Trump’s narrative with a simple, undeniable truth. This tactic proved effective in shifting the tone of the meeting, demonstrating a calculated effort to steer the conversation away from the inflammatory claims being presented.

Observers note that Trump’s actions were likely aimed at his domestic audience as much as they were at Ramaphosa himself. By highlighting perceived grievances, Trump energized his base, tapping into a narrative that resonates with his supporters. This performative style of diplomacy underscores a key aspect of Trump’s foreign policy: the intertwining of international relations with domestic political calculations. As one analyst put it, “This performative style of diplomacy is aimed as much at the domestic American audience as it is at the latest visitor to the Oval Office.” This highlights the dual nature of Trump’s interactions with foreign leaders, where the message is often tailored to resonate with his base back home.

The encounter between Ramaphosa and Trump highlights the challenges foreign leaders face in navigating the current global climate. As Trump continues to employ unconventional diplomatic tactics, other world leaders are learning to adapt and respond in kind. Should leaders like Ramaphosa continue to effectively counter Trump’s provocations, the U.S. president might find it necessary to adjust his approach.

Ultimately, President Cyril Ramaphosa’s composed response to Trump’s provocations highlights the evolving landscape of international diplomacy. By remaining calm and strategically employing flattery and representation, Ramaphosa successfully navigated a potentially volatile situation involving discussions of “white genocide” and related issues. This encounter signals the need for innovative diplomatic strategies in the current global climate, especially when dealing with sensitive topics related to South Africa.