Latest News & Developments
international relations
South African national Kim Towne tragically killed in the US, confirms Dirco
Kim Towne, a South African teacher, was tragically murdered by her husband in the US, prompting condolences from South African officials and raising questions about international relations.
Merz's missile plans could escalate tensions with Russia
Amid rising tensions, the Schiller Institute warns German Chancellor Friedrich Merz against his plans to produce long-range missiles for Ukraine, fearing a dangerous escalation with Russia that could lead to catastrophic consequences
Cyril Ramaphosa's crucial meeting with Donald Trump: Addressing tensions over 'genocide' claims
President Cyril Ramaphosa's meeting with Donald Trump on Wednesday seeks to address rising tensions over 'genocide' claims against white Afrikaners.
The Afrikaner refugees fallacy exposes the malady in SA-US relations
The recent claims of Afrikaner refugees fleeing persecution in South Africa challenge the nation's democratic ideals and its relationship with the US, revealing deeper issues within the narrative
What does Zelensky's visit mean for South Africa's foreign policy?
Zelensky's recent visit to South Africa has ignited significant controversy and division within the nation, prompting critical questions about the implications for the country's foreign policy and the potential fallout for the ruling ANC and its alliance partners
Godrich Gardee criticises Mcebisi Jonas's appointment as US envoy, suggests a pastor would be better
EFF deputy president Godrich Gardee warns that Mcebisi Jonas's past may complicate his role as South Africa's envoy to the US.
Stranded SANDF troops may be forced to evacuate from DRC by land
South African National Defence Force troops stationed in Goma may soon face a land evacuation due to the closure of Goma International Airport amid rising conflict, raising concerns over military assets and humanitarian conditions.
Stranded SANDF troops may be forced to evacuate from DRC by land
South African National Defence Force troops stationed in Goma may soon face a land evacuation due to the closure of Goma International Airport amid rising conflict, raising concerns over military assets and humanitarian conditions
AfriForum and Solidarity attack Mcebisi Jonas' appointment as US envoy
Solidarity and AfriForum voice strong opposition to Mcebisi Jonas' appointment as South Africa's Special Envoy to the US, questioning his ability to mend ties with the Trump administration.
SA’s new special envoy to the US: What we know about Mcebisi Jonas
Mcebisi Jonas, a seasoned political figure and confidant of President Cyril Ramaphosa, has been appointed as South Africa's Special Envoy to the US.
Trump's tariffs on South African exports | Calls grow for trade diversification
The United States has imposed 31% tariffs on South African exports, including vehicles, precious metals, and agricultural products. As economic pressure mounts, local and international experts are urging South Africa to diversify its trade partnerships beyond traditional markets to mitigate impact and ensure economic resilience.
When tariffs become a political weapon
US President Donald Trump's sweeping tariffs have shocked allies and ignited a global trade war. What does this mean for international relations and the global economy?
Clearing the Air | How SA's G20 delegation addressed US concerns about land policies
South African G20 delegation, led by Zane Dangor, met with White House officials to address misconceptions about the Expropriation Act and clarify that South Africa's land policies aren't designed to violate minority rights, but rather to tackle persistent structural inequality.
Trump’s blocking of the energy transition grant to South Africa, the context and implications
Explore how the legacy of apartheid and contemporary propaganda shape South Africa's energy transition, as Trump blocks crucial funding
The Future of Ukraine: What’s in it for the United States?
The writer explores the implications of the Ukraine conflict for the United States, questioning the rationale behind US involvement.
How China is using psychological warfare in the Russia-Ukraine conflict
Explore how China employs sophisticated psychological strategies to influence global perceptions and navigate the complexities of the Russia-Ukraine war
Will Brent Bozell's appointment as US ambassador to South Africa change the diplomatic landscape?
As tensions rise in US-South Africa relations, experts weigh in on whether Brent Bozell's conservative stance will foster understanding or exacerbate conflicts.
Ivan Timofeev | Here’s why Trump is talking peace with Putin
The window for peace in Ukraine is open – but for how long?
Rwanda cuts diplomatic relations with Belgium, orders Belgian diplomats to leave within 48 hours
Rwanda has taken the bold step of severing ties with Belgium, citing neocolonial patterns and historical grievances.
How Ebrahim Rasool's expulsion affects South Africa's relations with the US
Despite Ambassador Rasool's expulsion from the US, Policy expert maintain that SA-US diplomatic are a set back, not a break.
DA calls for urgent dialogue following US expulsion of Ebrahim Rasool
The Democratic Alliance urges immediate diplomatic intervention following the expulsion of SA Ambassador Ebrahim Rasool from the US, amid growing concerns over bilateral relations and economic implications.
AGDA Trainee Diplomats Visit South Africa to Strengthen Diplomatic Ties
The UAE Embassy in South Africa hosted a delegation of trainee diplomats from the UAE’s Anwar Gargash Diplomatic Academy (ADGA) from February 14 to 19 2025.
South Africa hits back at Trump’s executive orders, refugee offer for economically privileged Afrikaners
However, tensions between Pretoria and Washington have been simmering for some time, with diplomatic tensions escalating since the Ukraine and Russia war, while there were also tensions further fuelled by Pretoria taking Israel to the International Criminal Court for the genocidal bombardment of Gaza by the US ally, Israel.
Cyril Ramaphosa not invited to Trump's inauguration
South African President Cyril Ramaphosa will not attend Donald Trump’s inauguration, continuing a precedent of no South African leaders receiving invitations to US inaugurations. While South Africa's ambassador will attend, Trump’s guest list reportedly focuses on leaders aligned with his vision.
Presidents Xi, Boko exchange congratulations on 50th anniversary of China-Botswana ties
Chinese President Xi Jinping and Botswanan President Duma Boko on Monday exchanged congratulations over the 50th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic ties between the two countries.