# The Trump Administration’s Hostile Approach to South Africa
## Background
In 2018, the Trump administration announced plans to impose tariffs on steel and aluminum imports from South Africa, citing national security concerns. This move was met with shock and dismay by many in the South African government, who viewed it as unjust and unwarranted. The decision was just one example of the administration’s increasingly hostile approach to the country, which was shaped by a convergence of factors.
According to a report by the World Trade Organization, South Africa is one of the largest exporters of steel to the United States, making it a key player in the global steel market. The Trump administration’s decision to impose tariffs on South African steel was seen as a direct attack on the country’s economy, which relies heavily on exports to the US.
## Recent Developments
In addition to the steel tariffs, the Trump administration also took a hardline stance on issues such as land reform and human rights in South Africa. President Trump himself tweeted in 2018 that he had asked Secretary of State Mike Pompeo to closely study the South African government’s land and farm seizures and the large-scale killing of farmers.
These comments were met with outrage by many in South Africa, who viewed them as interference in the country’s internal affairs. The South African government responded by accusing the Trump administration of spreading misinformation and trying to undermine the country’s sovereignty.
## Reactions
The Trump administration’s hostile approach to South Africa has been met with mixed reactions from the international community. Some have applauded the administration for taking a tough stance on issues such as trade and human rights, while others have criticized it for its heavy-handed tactics.
According to an article in The New York Times, many experts believe that the Trump administration’s approach to South Africa is part of a broader strategy to assert American dominance in the global arena. By targeting countries like South Africa, which are seen as key players in the global economy, the administration hopes to send a message to other nations that it will not hesitate to use its economic power to achieve its goals.
## What Comes Next
As the Trump administration’s term comes to an end, many in South Africa are wondering what the future holds for the country’s relationship with the United States. With President-elect Joe Biden set to take office in January, there is hope that the US-South Africa relationship will improve.
However, some experts caution that the damage done by the Trump administration’s hostile approach may take time to repair. It will be crucial for the Biden administration to engage with South Africa in a constructive and respectful manner in order to rebuild trust and strengthen the relationship between the two countries.
In conclusion, the Trump administration’s hostile approach to South Africa was shaped by a convergence of factors, including trade disputes, human rights concerns, and a desire to assert American dominance on the global stage. As the Biden administration prepares to take office, the future of the US-South Africa relationship remains uncertain. Will the new administration be able to repair the damage done by its predecessor and build a stronger partnership with South Africa? Only time will tell.