Trump Calls For Shutdown Of 60 Minutes After Zelensky Interview

On April 14, 2025, former President Donald Trump launched a scathing attack on the American television program 60 Minutes, demanding that it be stripped of its broadcasting license following an episode featuring Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky. This demand came after Zelensky criticized U.S. policies regarding the ongoing conflict in Ukraine during his appearance on the show.

Trump took to his social media platform, Truth Social, to express his discontent. He wrote, "They are not a news show, but a constant political operative, simply masked as news, and should be held accountable for what they have done and are doing." His comments reflect a growing tension between the former president and the current political landscape, especially regarding U.S. support for Ukraine.

The episode in question aired on the same day, where Zelensky not only criticized the neutrality of the U.S. in the conflict but also demanded unwavering support for Ukraine, stating that he would not engage in negotiations with Russia. This bold stance comes as Ukraine continues to face significant challenges amid ongoing hostilities.

Trump's call for accountability did not stop at just 60 Minutes. He also targeted CBS News and Paramount, suggesting that these entities should face maximum fines for what he described as their "illegal" behavior. He stated, "CBS is out of control, and they should pay a big price for it." This rhetoric underscores Trump's ongoing battle with media outlets that he believes misrepresent his views and those of his supporters.

In his post, Trump further emphasized the need for the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) to take action against these networks, indicating a desire for stricter regulations on media conduct. He remarked, "It would be a great honor to sue these companies," highlighting his willingness to confront media organizations legally over their reporting.

The former president's criticism is not isolated. Earlier in the month, Trump and tech entrepreneur Elon Musk criticized The New York Times for what they termed the spread of false information. Musk described the newspaper's content as "pure propaganda," while Trump labeled such publications as a "disaster," reflecting a broader sentiment among some conservative circles regarding mainstream media.

Trump's relationship with Zelensky has been notably complex. In previous statements, Zelensky has acknowledged that during Trump's presidency, Ukraine received minimal military support from the U.S., a point that has not sat well with Trump. The former president has expressed frustration over Zelensky's refusal to sign a deal regarding rare earth metals, which was reportedly thwarted during a conversation in the Oval Office.

As the situation develops, the dynamic between Trump, Zelensky, and U.S. media will likely continue to evolve. Trump's call for the shutdown of 60 Minutes represents not just a personal grievance but also a significant moment in the ongoing discourse about media accountability and the portrayal of political figures in the United States.

The implications of Trump's statements extend beyond mere words; they signal a potential shift in how media organizations operate under the scrutiny of political figures who feel misrepresented. As Trump continues to challenge the narrative presented by mainstream media, the question remains: how will these conflicts influence public perception and the political landscape in the coming months?