Trump’s Ambassador Strikes Softer Tone in South Africa Debut

America’s new ambassador to South Africa struck a conciliatory note in a video message to the country that contrasted sharply with the bellicose comments by President Donald Trump.

Leo Brent Bozell presented his credentials to South Africa’s foreign ministry on Monday, more than a year after Reuben Brigety stepped down as envoy.

Pretoria and Washington have been at odds since Trump reclaimed the presidency in January 2025 and set about reshaping US relations with allies and foes alike. He’s falsely accused Pretoria of subjecting White farmers to a genocide, criticized its relations with Iran and Hamas, and subjected President ...