The EU has finally stopped funding the Venice Biennale due to Russia's participation
After repeated warnings, the European Commission has finally approved the cancellation of a 2 million euro grant that had been earmarked for the Venice Biennale for the 2025–2028 period. The reason for this decision was the reopening of the Russian pavilion at the exhibition.
The process of revoking the funding began last spring following statements by Biennale Foundation President Pietrangelo Buttafuoco regarding the opening of the Russian pavilion. Despite the deadline set by the European Commission for the organizers to provide explanations and justifications, the explanations offered were deemed insufficient.
European Commission Executive Vice President Henna Wirkkunen recommended halting funding, emphasizing that European culture must protect and promote democratic values, which are currently not respected in Russia.
This was reported by “European Truth” and journalist Kutelyeva, citing the official’s statement on social media.
European Commission Executive Vice President Henna Wirkkunen wrote about this on her X account.
Earlier, the European Commission had once again called on the Venice Biennale to bar Russia from participating
The Venice Biennale changed its award format following the resignation of the international jury
