The Trump administration is preparing to welcome the first group of white South Africans to the U.S. as early as next week, citing claims of racial persecution due to South Africa’s land expropriation policies.
According to documents obtained by The New York Times, the White House plans to classify these individuals as refugees, arguing they have been unfairly targeted by South Africa’s government. The first arrivals are expected to land at Dulles Airport near Washington, D.C., with the administration likely to publicize the move as a humanitarian effort.
This decision follows years of tension between the U.S. and South Africa, exacerbated by Pretoria’s support for Palestine and its recent case against Israel at the International Criminal Court over alleged genocide in Gaza. Relations further deteriorated when South Africa’s ambassador to the U.S. was declared persona non grata and expelled earlier this year.
Critics argue the refugee program, largely suspended for other groups—including Congolese fleeing conflict—has been fast-tracked for white South Africans, raising questions about political motivations. The U.S. typically prioritizes refugees escaping war or natural disasters, making this move unusual.
Approximately 100 South Africans have reportedly been deemed eligible for resettlement, though the total number expected remains unclear.
The South African government has not yet responded to the announcement, but the move is likely to deepen diplomatic strains between the two nations.