Diplomatic crisis: Pretoria seeks rapprochement with Washington

South African ambassador to the United States Roelf Meyer says he is optimistic that Pretoria and Washington can restore their strained relationship. He argues that direct dialogue between the two governments could lead from discussions to negotiations. The countries have been at odds for months over racial, trade and diplomatic issues; the Trump administration has cut aid to South Africa, imposed tariffs and boycotted the 2025 G20 summit in Johannesburg.