President Ramaphosa Asserts South Africa’s Sovereignty Amid External Pressures

President Cyril Ramaphosa has reaffirmed South Africa’s foreign-policy independence, declaring the country’s sovereignty “non-negotiable” amid rising geopolitical tensions.

Speaking during his State of the Nation Address in Cape Town, Ramaphosa said South Africa “will not be bullied by any other country,” stressing that the government would continue to defend its national interests and democratic values.

He said the country remains resilient in the face of external pressure and committed to protecting the rights of its citizens.

“In a world where powerful nations often assert their dominance and influence over less powerful states, our country’s commitment to sovereignty and self-determination is sacrosanct. It is not negotiable,” he said.

The president added that South Africa would continue to respect the sovereignty and rights of other nations while maintaining an independent foreign policy.

His remarks come amid increasingly strained relations with the United States, driven by tensions over Pretoria’s non-aligned stance on global conflicts, its membership in BRICS, and repeated accusations by Washington – denied by South Africa – alleging a “white genocide” in the country.

The United States has also criticised South Africa’s diplomatic position on the war in Gaza and its decision to file a genocide case against Israel at the International Court of Justice, moves that have deepened political divisions between the two countries.