The theatrical meeting between President Trump and his South African counterpart Ramaphosa has been interpreted as his second major diplomatic faux pas in the Oval Office. Trump is alleged to have utilized the historic place of honor to embarrass foreign dignitaries.

Ramaphosa, the outspoken African president who suggested Trump keep America for himself during a press conference, generally kept his composure when provoked, demonstrating high-level diplomacy, whereas Zelenskiy lost composure and engaged in a heated exchange with Trump.

In a scenario recalling President Volodymyr Zelenskiy\'s visit in February, a scene clearly orchestrated by the White House for maximum effect, Trump a former reality TV star, ordered the lights to be dimmed and presented a video and printed articles purporting to be evidence of persecution against white South Africans, confronting Ramaphosa with claims of genocide against South African whites, including allegations of mass killings and land seizures. This encounter was perceived by many as an ambush of a foreign leader in front of television cameras.

Ramaphosa, observed to have had his eye pulled while attempting to maintain composure to avoid confrontation, was clearly prepared to counter Trump\'s accusations but was unlikely to have anticipated the direct challenge or criticism of a U.S. president known for his reputation for being offensive.

The Oval Office meeting was arranged to bolster the deteriorating relations between the U.S. and South Africa, particularly following Trump\'s escalating tensions due to his unsubstantiated allegations and imposition of tariffs.

The summary of Ramaphosa\'s meeting with Trump can be seen as another demonstration of Trump\'s propensity to exploit the Oval Office, traditionally a place of honor for foreign dignitaries, to coerce leaders from less-influential nations into compliance with vested interests.