I also don't see it as a renouncement of the Times. It's just a fair expression of concern the Times should be very careful about giving credence to Trump on any particular issue since the danger he represents is so much bigger than any one issue.
I think it has to do with Maggie Haberman, who works for the NYT. For some reason, many people seem to think she lets Trumpty off lightly.
I don't get that. I don't think she does, and so I'm mystified.