Europe is looking to build influence in the Global South as the US soft power wanes under Donald Trump's second presidency. European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen has been focusing on Africa, South America, and India, as well as other key emerging markets. The EU is South Africa's leading source of foreign direct investment and largest trading partner in Sub-Saharan Africa. Europe sees Africa as a key region for resource wealth and wants to promote a rules-based, multilateral approach to world order. The EU's diplomatic efforts contrast with the Trump administration's attacks on South Africa and reduction of aid to the country.