Poland Launches Georgian-Language News Service to Counter Russian Disinformation
WARSAW — Poland launched a Georgian-language news service on Tuesday, joining a growing network of state-funded media outlets aimed at pushing back against Russian disinformation campaigns across Eastern Europe and the Caucasus. The new program, announced by Polish officials, is designed to provide Georgian audiences with independent reporting and analysis as Moscow intensifies its information warfare in the region.
The service joins existing Polish-language news initiatives already targeting audiences in Moldova, Armenia, Belarus, and Russia itself, according to Notesfrompoland, which first reported the launch. Poland has positioned itself as a leading hub for counter-disinformation efforts since Russia's full-scale invasion of Ukraine in 2022, investing heavily in media projects that offer alternatives to Kremlin-controlled outlets.
Expanding the Media Network
The Georgian-language service represents the latest expansion of Poland's "InfoPoland" media network, which now broadcasts in five languages across the former Soviet space. Each outlet operates independently but shares a common mission: delivering fact-based journalism to populations that Russian state media have long dominated.
Polish officials have not disclosed the exact budget for the Georgian service, but the broader InfoPoland initiative has received substantial government funding since its inception. The network's Armenian and Moldovan services have each attracted tens of thousands of regular readers, according to internal metrics cited by Polish media.
Disinformation Battlefield
Georgia has become a particular focus of Russian disinformation efforts in recent years, with Moscow seeking to undermine Tbilisi's pro-Western orientation and its aspirations to join NATO and the European Union. Russian-language outlets and social media accounts have repeatedly spread false claims about Georgian politicians, the country's EU integration process, and alleged Western interference in its domestic affairs.
The new Polish service aims to counter these narratives by providing Georgian-language reporting on regional politics, security issues, and economic developments. Its editorial team includes journalists with experience covering the South Caucasus, according to the announcement.
Regional Context
Poland's media expansion comes as European intelligence agencies warn of escalating Russian hybrid warfare operations. On the same day as the Georgian service launch, Eutoday reported that a Russian-linked network had been accused of preparing assassinations and sabotage across the European Union, highlighting the broader security challenges facing the continent.
The Polish government has framed its media initiatives as part of a comprehensive strategy to defend democratic institutions and information integrity. Warsaw has also pushed for greater EU coordination on counter-disinformation efforts, arguing that individual member states cannot effectively combat Russian propaganda alone.
Next Steps
The Georgian-language service will begin publishing daily news updates and analysis pieces immediately, with plans to expand into video content and social media outreach in the coming months. Polish officials said they would monitor audience engagement metrics closely to refine the service's editorial focus and distribution strategy.