'Hates Trump': US Expels South African Envoy In 'Very Rare' Move
The removal of the ambassador, an uncommon action by the US, is the newest update in the escalating discord between Washington and Pretoria.
The South African presidential office described the US decision to send away their ambassador as "unfortunate" on Saturday, following remarks from Washington’s leading diplomat accusing the envoy of having animosity towards America and President Donald Trump.
On Friday, Secretary of State Marco Rubio stated that Ebrahim Rasool, South Africa's ambassador, was "no longer acceptable" in the United States.
Rubio expressed on X that Rasool is "a race-baiting politician who despises America and dislikes @POTUS," using Trump’s official account handle.
"We have no conversations to hold with him, and thus he is regarded as PERSONA NON GRATA."
In a statement, South Africa's presidency acknowledged the "unfortunate expulsion" and called upon "all relevant and affected parties to uphold the established diplomatic standards in dealing with the issue."
"The nation of South Africa is still dedicated to developing a mutually advantageous relationship with the United States," the presidency added.
The removal of the ambassador, an uncommon action by the US, is the newest update in escalating discord between Washington and Pretoria.
In February, Trump halted US aid to South Africa, pointing to a law in the nation that he claims permits the confiscation of land from white farmers.