The United Kingdom has imposed sanctions on Georgian broadcasters Imedi TV and POSTV because of their alleged involvement in spreading Russian disinformation.
The British government stated that the measures target the two television companies as organisations “involved in spreading Russian disinformation,” including what it describes as deliberately misleading narratives about Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine.
The sanctions package includes asset freezes, restrictions on financial services related to asset management and director disqualification measures.
In a statement released following the decision, Imedi dismissed the sanctions as politically motivated and lacking legitimacy.
“British sanctions have no value whatsoever. The only valuable assessment for TV company ‘Imedi’ is the trust of the Georgian people,” the broadcaster said.
Imedi emphasised that it has operated for more than 22 years and described itself as a defender of freedom of speech in Georgia. The company recalled the 2007 storming and seizure of its premises during the administration in power at the time, referring to that period as a ‘criminal regime’ that, in its view, suppressed democratic standards, human rights and media freedom.
The statement further criticised the British government, claiming it had not expressed concern during the 2007 events and had continued to support the Georgian authorities of that period.
The British sanctions document states that Imedi and POSTV disseminated misleading information primarily to Georgian audiences regarding Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. The UK government framed the move as part of broader efforts to counter Russian disinformation and protect information integrity.
Imedi, however, rejected the accusations and reaffirmed its commitment to what it describes as responsible journalism and service to Georgian society. The broadcaster mentioned its long-standing position as one of the country’s highest-rated television stations and pledged to continue operating with ‘high responsibility’ toward the public.
