Overview
- The European Commission said it will suspend or terminate an ongoing grant of about €2 million to the Biennale Foundation if Russia takes part, specifying the project supports film producers working in virtual reality.
- La Biennale has confirmed Russia’s participation in 2026 with a pavilion titled The Tree Is Rooted in the Sky and defends a policy rejecting cultural exclusion, noting countries recognized by Italy can participate and that Russia holds a permanent Giardini pavilion.
- Italy’s Ministry of Culture stated the decision was made independently by the Biennale Foundation and said the government does not support Russia’s return.
- Opposition has intensified with a joint letter from 22 European culture and foreign ministers and an open petition signed by more than 7,000 artists and cultural figures urging the Biennale to reverse course.
- Critics highlight reported ties of pavilion commissioner Anastasia Karneeva to Russia’s state and defense circles, warning the national pavilion could be used for soft-power messaging or propaganda.