President Cyril Ramaphosa has appointed former Deputy Finance Minister Mcebisi Jonas as his Special Envoy to the United States. The appointment comes amid ongoing challenges in the SA-US relationship, including disagreements over trade policies, foreign policy positions, and South Africa’s stance on global conflicts. Tensions between the two countries have risen since President Cyril Ramaphosa signed the contentious Expropriation Act into law, enraging US President Donald Trump’s administration.  Thabiso Kotane speaks to International Relations Expert, Prof. Siphamandla Zondi.