MIAMI — The British Broadcasting Corporation has asked a Florida court to dismiss a $10 billion defamation lawsuit filed by U.S. President Donald Trump, arguing that the court lacks jurisdiction to hear the case involving the U.K.-based public broadcaster.
Court filings show Trump accuses the BBC of defamation over its coverage of him, alleging the broadcaster published or aired false statements that damaged his reputation. The lawsuit seeks $10 billion in damages and was filed in Florida, where Trump claims the alleged harm occurred.
In its motion to dismiss, the BBC argues it does not have sufficient ties to Florida to fall under the court’s authority. The broadcaster states it is headquartered in the United Kingdom, operates under a royal charter, and functions as a public service media organization governed by British law. The filing says the BBC does not maintain a principal place of business in Florida and has limited operations in the state.
The BBC contends that making content accessible online or through broadcasts viewable in Florida does not establish jurisdiction. Its lawyers cite legal precedents involving foreign defendants, arguing that global availability of content alone does not subject an international media organization to lawsuits in every location where content can be accessed.
Trump’s complaint alleges the BBC acted with knowledge of falsity or reckless disregard for the truth, standards required in defamation cases involving public figures. Public court records do not fully detail the specific reports or broadcasts cited in the lawsuit.
The BBC’s filing does not address the substance of the defamation claims. It focuses solely on whether the Florida court has the legal authority to hear the case. If the judge grants the motion, the lawsuit would be dismissed without a ruling on the merits.
The court has not yet ruled on the BBC’s request. Further filings or hearings may follow.