Foto Vincenzo PINTO / AFP
This format was a compromise solution against the backdrop of growing pressure from European politicians and cultural figures demanding a complete withdrawal of Russia’s participation. The discussion intensified in the context of the ongoing conflict with Ukraine and the EU sanctions policy. Earlier, there were calls to completely close the pavilion, but the organizers followed a more restrained scenario.
According to La Repubblica, details of Russia’s participation have been discussed since mid-2025. The correspondence at the disposal of journalists includes the president of the Biennale Foundation Pietrangelo Buttafuoco and the general director Andrea Del Mercato. The Russian side was represented by Pavilion Commissioner Anastasia Karneeva, who presented the exhibition concept and related materials in early 2026.
The Biennale Foundation emphasized in an official statement that all procedures were carried out in strict compliance with international and national legislation. The organizers also rejected accusations of attempts to circumvent the sanctions, saying that the restrictions were observed in full.
Nevertheless, the decision drew sharp reactions in Italy. Culture Minister Alessandro Giuli boycotted the opening and called for the resignation of ministry spokeswoman Tamara Gregoretti, saying she had supported Russia’s participation despite realizing the international sensitivity of the issue. Deputy Prime Minister Matteo Salvini also publicly supported Russia’s participation.
Additional pressure came from the European Union: the European Commission warned of a possible withdrawal of funding for the Biennale. Commission Vice President Kaja Kallas called Russia’s participation “morally unacceptable.” Ukraine, which is also returning to the Venice Biennale this year, has imposed sanctions against five people associated with the Russian pavilion and is seeking the revocation of participants’ visas.
