The White House Press Secretary, Karoline Leavitt, reportedly delivered a firm warning to executives at the television network CBS regarding its planned interview with U.S. President Donald Trump, underscoring heightened tensions between the administration and parts of the media ahead of the broadcast.

According to sources familiar with the matter, Leavitt’s message emphasised expectations for fair and balanced questioning and cautioned against framing the interview in a manner perceived as hostile or agenda-driven.

The exchange reflects the administration’s broader effort to assert control over media narratives and safeguard what it considers respectful and constructive engagement with the president.

The dispute emerged in the lead-up to an interview scheduled to feature President Trump, with network producers reportedly reviewing editorial approaches and potential lines of questioning.

Leavitt’s intervention was characterised by aides as part of routine coordination between the White House and media outlets, though it was described by some as unusually direct in tone.

Officials within the administration reiterated that their objective was to ensure that the president’s positions and accomplishments were accurately represented, particularly on key policy issues including immigration, the economy and national security.

Representatives for CBS have not publicly detailed their response to the White House’s communication, but the network is understood to be proceeding with preparations for the interview while maintaining its editorial independence.

Media analysts say the incident highlights ongoing frictions between the Trump administration and major news organisations, as both sides navigate a contentious political environment where broadcast interviews remain a critical platform for presidential communication.

The upcoming programme is expected to air in the coming days, drawing significant attention from audiences keen to follow developments in the U.S. political landscape.