"Granting Russia a prestigious international cultural platform sends a deeply troubling signal, especially given the ongoing conflict in Ukraine, which has now entered its fifth year."
"We politically condemn the decision to open the Russian pavilion and invite the Italian government to address this issue, as it undermines the values we stand for."
"The Biennale does not have the authority to prevent a country from participating. Any country recognized by the Italian Republic may request to participate."
The European Union has withdrawn a 2 million-euro grant from the Venice Biennale after organizers allowed Russia to participate in the upcoming exhibition. Ukraine and 21 EU member states criticized Russia's inclusion, citing the ongoing invasion of Ukraine. The European Commission confirmed the funding withdrawal, condemning the decision to open the Russian pavilion. The Biennale stated it cannot prevent recognized countries from participating, having previously resisted pressure to exclude nations like Iran and Israel from the event.
Read at RadioFreeEurope/RadioLiberty
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