Trump praises English of the leader of Liberia – where English is the official language
The GuardianWednesday, July 9, 2025 at 9:41:44 PM
During a meeting with African leaders at the White House, Donald Trump seemed surprised that Liberian President Joseph Boakai spoke English fluently—despite English being Liberia's official language. Boakai, who praised Trump's "America First" policies, later advocated for U.S. investment in his country. The awkward moment highlights Trump's recurring tendency to make tone-deaf or uninformed remarks about non-Western nations.
Editor’s Note: This isn’t just a cringe-worthy gaffe—it underscores how cultural ignorance can undermine diplomatic interactions. Liberia, founded by freed American slaves, has used English for centuries, making Trump’s remark especially jarring. For leaders of Global South nations, such moments reinforce perceptions of American condescension, even when they’re seeking serious partnerships.
— Curated via WP Now’s
