MEPs urge Commission leaders to stop Russia from returning to the Venice Biennale

MEPs Urge EU Leaders to Block Russia’s Return to Venice Biennale

European Union lawmakers have called on top officials to halt Russia’s reentry into the 61st Venice Biennale, warning that allowing participation would erode public confidence in the bloc. In a letter obtained by Euronews, members of the European Parliament emphasized the need for “urgent and decisive steps” to prevent the event from becoming a platform for Russian propaganda. The letter targeted Ursula von der Leyen, president of the European Commission, Kaja Kallas, chief of the European Commission’s foreign policy, and other high-ranking figures.

Letter Condemns Biennale’s Decision

The MEPs accused the biennale organizers of welcoming Russia back as “Ukrainian cities face bombardment, civilians perish, and cultural heritage is dismantled.” They argued that the Russian pavilion’s inclusion would “grant prestige and legitimacy” to a nation under EU sanctions, highlighting the contradiction with its actions in Ukraine. “No nation sanctioned by the EU should be permitted to showcase its influence through taxpayer-funded events,” the document stated.

“Russia’s cultural presence at the biennale risks normalizing its war crimes and reinforcing its authoritarian narrative,” said Heorhii Tykhiy, spokesperson for Ukraine’s Foreign Ministry. “This is not about art alone—it’s about erasing the identity of a people and legitimizing violence.”

Historical Contrast in Organizers’ Stance

Tykhiy pointed to a shift in the biennale’s approach, noting that in 2022, when Russia launched a full-scale invasion, organizers had restricted its participation. “At that time, they clearly opposed Russian aggression and framed the event as a space for dialogue,” he explained. “Now, with attacks ongoing and cultural sites like Lviv’s historic center damaged, what justification remains for inviting Russia?”

“The destruction of UNESCO-listed landmarks in Lviv underscores Russia’s brutality,” Sybiha, head of Ukraine’s Foreign Ministry, wrote in a separate statement. “This is the face of a regime that uses culture to mask its crimes and spread influence through soft power.”

Call for Immediate Action

Lawmakers demanded that Brussels halt funding for the biennale if Russia is not excluded from participants. They also sought “restrictive measures” against individuals or groups tied to the Russian pavilion, citing its links to Rostec, a state-backed company supplying weapons to the military. The Russian pavilion is reportedly managed by the daughter of Nikolai Volobu, deputy head of Rostec.

By linking cultural events to ongoing conflict, the MEPs argue that the EU risks endorsing Russia’s policies. “Culture and authoritarianism are inseparable here,” Tykhiy added. “Allowing Russia to exhibit its work at Venice would legitimize its war efforts and undermine European solidarity.” The message underscores a broader concern: the biennale’s role in promoting narratives that obscure the destruction of Ukraine’s heritage and sovereignty.