Negotiations between Paramount Global and U.S. President Donald Trump over his defamation lawsuit against CBS News remain stalled, according to a recent report by The Wall Street Journal. Despite over a month of talks, the two sides have yet to agree on a settlement.
Sources familiar with the matter revealed that Paramount has proposed a $15 million settlement to resolve the lawsuit. However, Trump’s legal team is pushing for more than $25 million in damages, along with a formal apology from CBS News. The lawsuit stems from what Trump claims was false and damaging reporting aired by the news network.
The gap between the settlement offers signals that resolution may not be imminent. Trump's team remains firm in their demand for not only higher financial compensation but also public acknowledgment of wrongdoing by CBS. Paramount, which owns CBS News, has not publicly commented on the ongoing legal negotiations.
This legal standoff underscores Trump's continued pursuit of media accountability, a theme consistent with his public criticisms of mainstream outlets. For Paramount, settling the lawsuit would close a high-profile legal battle that could otherwise draw extended public and political attention.
As both parties maintain their positions, it remains uncertain whether a compromise can be reached. Legal experts note that such disputes often hinge on reputational concerns as much as monetary damages, which may explain the insistence on an apology in addition to the financial demands.
The case highlights the broader tensions between prominent media organizations and political figures, particularly in a polarized media environment. Whether Paramount will raise its offer or Trump will soften his terms could determine the outcome in the coming weeks.