Oh, is that all?
Yep. Sure, there are ramifications of admitting that what was published was a state secret; but if it is, and the government wants to charge that it is, then it has to admit that it is.
The alternative is to let the publication hang out there with its "state secret" status unknown - but the fact still being out in the public eye.
What do you propose? Convictions without proof?
Wait till day before SOL.