Former US President Donald Trump has ignited fresh controversy by sharing a video on social media that falsely implies CNN provided cover for the late financier and convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein.
The clip, which Trump posted on his Truth Social platform, features spliced footage of a CNN anchor discussing Epstein's connections to high-profile figures. The network swiftly condemned the post as "reckless" and "dangerously misleading".
CNN Fires Back
A CNN spokesperson stated: "This is yet another example of Donald Trump spreading demonstrably false information. The edited video grossly misrepresents our reporting and puts our journalists at risk."
The video in question appears to manipulate a 2019 CNN segment about Epstein's associations with powerful individuals, including Britain's Prince Andrew and former US President Bill Clinton.
Epstein's Shadow Looms
Jeffrey Epstein died in prison in 2019 while awaiting trial on sex trafficking charges. His connections to wealthy and influential figures have continued to generate speculation and conspiracy theories.
Trump's decision to share the doctored footage comes as he campaigns for a potential return to the White House in 2024. Political analysts suggest this move may be an attempt to rally his base by attacking mainstream media outlets.
Social Media Fallout
The post has drawn significant engagement on Truth Social, with supporters praising Trump for "exposing the truth" while critics accuse him of peddling dangerous misinformation.
This incident marks the latest chapter in Trump's long-standing feud with CNN, which he frequently labelled as "fake news" during his presidency.
