The trip, which was planned for late November, was tied to Vance’s attendance at the summit before making a stop in Nairobi.
However, after Washington’s decision to boycott the global meeting, the visit to Kenya has been thrown into doubt.
Sources close to the White House revealed that Vice President Vance has no immediate plans for any international travel following the withdrawal.
Sources close to the White House revealed that Vice President Vance has no immediate plans for any international travel following the withdrawal.
This comes as a blow to Kenya’s diplomatic hopes, as the visit was seen as a key moment to renew US–Kenya relations under Trump’s leadership.
Speaking on his Truth Social account, President Trump accused South Africa of mistreating its white minority population and vowed that no US representative would attend the summit.
Speaking on his Truth Social account, President Trump accused South Africa of mistreating its white minority population and vowed that no US representative would attend the summit.
“It is a disgrace that the G20 will be hosted by a country violating human rights,” he wrote.
Trump’s remarks follow long-standing claims from his administration that South Africa’s land reforms target white farmers.
Trump’s remarks follow long-standing claims from his administration that South Africa’s land reforms target white farmers.
The South African government has strongly denied those allegations, insisting its policies aim to correct historical injustices caused by apartheid.
Vance’s visit to Kenya was expected to focus on trade, security cooperation, and mineral exploration partnerships.
Vance’s visit to Kenya was expected to focus on trade, security cooperation, and mineral exploration partnerships.
Kenya has become a critical player in East Africa’s economic landscape, attracting global powers like the US and China eager to access vital resources such as rare earth minerals found in areas like Mrima Hill, near the coast.
Analysts say the cancellation of the G20 trip might delay America’s re-engagement with African nations.
Analysts say the cancellation of the G20 trip might delay America’s re-engagement with African nations.
The move also risks giving China more influence in the region as Beijing continues expanding its investment footprint.
A senior diplomat familiar with the situation said Vance’s team had been in contact with Kenyan officials to plan meetings aimed at strengthening bilateral ties.
A senior diplomat familiar with the situation said Vance’s team had been in contact with Kenyan officials to plan meetings aimed at strengthening bilateral ties.
“This visit was meant to signal Washington’s commitment to Nairobi. Its delay leaves a gap that others may fill,” the diplomat noted.
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