EU Officially Cuts Funding for Venice Art Biennale Over Russia's Participation
The European Commission has officially discontinued its €2 million grant to the Venice Art Biennale, citing Russia's participation in the 2026 edition as a violation of democratic values. The decision, confirmed by the European Education and Culture Executive Agency (EACEA), follows months of controversy after Russia announced its return to the Giardini for the first time since the start of the war. Biennale President Pietrangelo Buttafuoco had defended Russia's involvement as a 'diplomacy of beauty,' drawing sharp criticism from Kyiv and distancing from the Italian government. The move also comes after the entire international jury resigned in protest over Russia and Israel's participation, and South Africa withdrew from the exhibition. The Biennale leadership described the funding cut as a 'political decision' and plans to challenge it. Despite the symbolic loss of funds, the Biennale reported higher visitor numbers than in 2024.
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