Earlier this week, the Italian government sent officials explore the return of Russian artists to the Venice scene. Italian Prime Minister Giorga Meloni he told reporters Thursday that he did not know if the jury’s resignation was connected to the audit, but he reiterated his previous position: “The government does not share the choice made in the Russian pavilion.”
The Biennale will open its doors to the public on May 9, coinciding with Moscow’s Victory Day parade, which will be. has been significantly reduced for the first time in 20 years. Both events, including major sports seriesthey reflect Russian President Vladimir Putin’s attempt to reassert Russia’s place on the global stage by using culture and soft power as diplomatic tools.
“The culture of the aggressor is neutral during war and should never be used to serve the interests of the aggressor, hide its crimes, and spread its propaganda,” Sybiha said.
The EU has threatened to cut millions of dollars for the next edition of the Venice Biennale, while Russia and Israel have been excluded from the award in this year’s edition. The Italian government has repeatedly criticized the presence of Russia, and the Minister of Culture Alessandro Giuli choose to boycott event together with several other EU countries.
