The European Commission has condemned the decision to admit Russia to the Venice Biennale
The European Commission has sharply criticised the decision to allow Russia to participate in the 61st International Art Exhibition of the Venice Biennale in 2026. This is stated in a joint statement by European Commission Executive Vice-President Hanne Virkkunen and European Commissioner Glenn Micalluff.
The statement emphasises that the European Commission strongly condemns the decision of the Biennale Foundation to allow Russia to reopen its national pavilion at the exhibition.
Brussels stressed that the European Union's position on Russia's illegal aggression against Ukraine remains unchanged.
"Culture promotes democratic values, open dialogue, diversity and freedom of expression and should never be used as a platform for propaganda," the statement said.
The European Commission also stressed that EU member states and international organisations must act in accordance with EU sanctions and not provide a platform for individuals who have supported or justified the Kremlin's aggression against Ukraine.
Brussels warned that the decision to allow Russia to participate in the exhibition contradicts the EU's joint response to Russia's war against Ukraine.
The European Commission also stated that if this decision is implemented, it may consider further steps, including suspending or terminating EU funding currently received by the Venice Biennale Foundation.
