<p>Donald Trump has filed a lawsuit against the BBC, alleging defamation and seeking $5 billion in damages, claiming the BBC maliciously edited his speech from January 6, 2021, in a documentary, making it appear he incited the Capitol riot. Trump accuses the BBC of distorting his words by combining segments where he urged supporters to march to the Capitol and “fight like hell,” while omitting a part where he called for peaceful protest. The BBC acknowledged an error, admitting the editing created a false impression of a direct call to violence, but denies legal grounds for a lawsuit. The dispute arose from a “Panorama” documentary aired before the 2024 presidential election, causing a public relations crisis and resignations at the BBC, which has removed the documentary from its platforms. Trump’s lawyers argue the BBC caused significant reputational and financial harm, while the BBC maintains the documentary was largely accurate and did not damage Trump’s reputation.</p><p>President Trump stated that a deal to end the war in Ukraine is closer than ever, noting extensive talks with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy and European leaders. The US has reportedly offered Ukraine security guarantees similar to NATO, as negotiators claim progress, though territorial concessions remain a hurdle. Zelenskyy expressed support for a Christmas ceasefire, contingent on Russia’s political will, and warned he would request long-range weapons from the US if peace efforts fail. German Chancellor Friedrich Merz sees a real chance for a peace process, while French President Emmanuel Macron affirmed the pursuit of a lasting peace, emphasizing Ukrainian sovereignty and European security. Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov stated that US communications offer hope and understanding of Moscow’s position, while Deputy Foreign Minister Sergey Ryabkov suggested a diplomatic solution is near.</p><p>Trump is suing the BBC for defamation over the editing of his January 6, 2021, speech in a “Panorama” documentary, seeking $5 billion in damages for defamation and violation of business practices law. Trump’s legal team accuses the BBC of intentionally distorting his speech, while the BBC apologized in November but denied any basis for a defamation claim. The documentary presented Trump as saying, “We’re going to walk down to the Capitol… and I’ll be there with you. We fight. We fight like hell,” omitting context. The BBC admitted the editing gave a false impression of inciting violence.</p>
