EU withdraws Venice Biennale grant after Russia’s return

The report cited European Commission spokesperson Thomas Regnier, who said the Executive Agency for Education, Audiovisual and Culture (EACEA) made the decision following a legal assessment and a recommendation from the commission.

“Cultural events funded by European taxpayers must protect democratic values, promote open dialogue, diversity and freedom of expression — values that are not respected in today’s Russia,” said Regnier.

The Venice Biennale is scheduled to run May 9–Nov. 22, 2026. Russia will reopen its national pavilion there for the first time since the full-scale invasion of Ukraine in 2022, a move that prompted protests from 22 European governments.

Thirty-seven members of the European Parliament urged the commission to suspend the EUR2 million funding and consider restrictive measures against individuals connected to the Russian pavilion.

Read also: Protests erupt over Russia’s return to the Venice Biennale

We’re bringing the voice of Ukraine to the world. Support us with a one-time donation, or become a Patron!

Read the original article on The New Voice of Ukraine

Section: Nation

Author: Eric Malinowski