Russia Today (RT) is a Russian state-controlled international television network launched in 2005 as part of a Kremlin initiative to improve Russia’s global image and counter Western media narratives. Originally branded as “Russia Today,” the network rebranded to “RT” in 2009 to obscure its Russian origins while expanding into multiple languages including English, Spanish, and Arabic. Headquartered in Moscow and funded by the Russian government through the federal budget, RT operates television channels, websites, and social media platforms reaching audiences across Europe, the Americas, and beyond. Western governments and media analysts have widely characterized RT as a propaganda tool that spreads disinformation, particularly regarding Russian foreign policy, the Ukraine conflict, and Western democracies. The network has faced bans, restrictions, and loss of broadcast licenses in numerous countries, including throughout the European Union following Russia’s 2022 invasion of Ukraine. Despite these restrictions, RT maintains significant online reach and continues expanding its global operations.