What is Russia Today?

Russia Today (RT) is a Russian state-controlled international television network funded by the Russian government. It was launched in 2005 as Russia Today by RIA Novosti to promote a pro-Russian perspective on domestic and global events.

RT airs news, documentaries, and political commentary in multiple languages across TV channels and YouTube, positioning itself as an alternative to Western media. However, RT has faced accusations of spreading disinformation and propaganda favoring Russian political interests.

Key aspects of RT's coverage include criticism of US foreign policy, negative portrayal of European integration, promotion of divisive political issues like Scottish independence, and defense of Russian policy in Ukraine, Syria, and beyond. As RT does not publish audience figures, its actual reach and impact remain unclear.

In recent years, RT registered as a foreign agent in the US due to accusations of interfering in the 2016 presidential elections. Several Western countries have also threatened sanctions against RT for spreading propaganda. However, RT continues to expand its coverage and claims Western sanctions violate free speech.

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