The attack on the freedom of the press is a retrograde step.

Retrograde : directed or moving backwards.
Aggressive : ready or likely to attack or confront; characterized by or resulting from aggression.
Progressive : happening or developing gradually or in stages.
Punitive : inflicting or intended as punishment.
Stubborn : having or showing dogged determination not to change one's attitude or position on something, especially in spite of good arguments or reasons to do so.

Antonym of Retrograde is Progressive