Overview
- The Ministry of Culture, which sent inspectors to Ca’ Giustinian on Wednesday, is collecting internal emails and records on the decision to reopen Russia’s national pavilion.
- Following the panel’s move to exclude Russia and Israel from prizes because their leaders face ICC accusations, the entire international jury resigned on Thursday.
- The Biennale postponed the award ceremony to November 22 and introduced two Visitor Lions to be chosen by ticket‑holders, with Russia and Israel still eligible.
- EU culture chief Glenn Micallef said the Russian pavilion violates European principles and notified organizers of an intent to withdraw about €2 million unless the invitation is reversed.
- Pressure on leadership is mounting as Culture Minister Alessandro Giuli plans to skip the opening and Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni says she would not have reopened Russia’s pavilion, while the ministry says it is reviewing documents rather than preparing a takeover.