The correct answer is A. aggressive.
A retrograde step is a step backwards, or a move away from progress. In the context of the question, the attack on the freedom of the press is a retrograde step because it is an attempt to silence the media and prevent them from reporting on important issues. This is an aggressive act that threatens democracy and the free flow of information.
The other options are incorrect because they do not accurately describe the attack on the freedom of the press. Option B, progressive, is incorrect because the attack on the freedom of the press is not a step forward, but a step backwards. Option C, punitive, is incorrect because the attack on the freedom of the press is not a punishment, but an attempt to silence the media. Option D, stubborn, is incorrect because the attack on the freedom of the press is not an act of stubbornness, but an act of aggression.