EU Commission Threatens Funding Cut Over Russian Pavilion at Venice Biennale

The European Commission has announced potential funding cuts for Venice's Biennale art exhibition if organizers let Russia reopen its pavilion. The Commission criticizes this decision, citing the importance of culture in promoting democratic values. Russia's participation was previously halted due to the Ukraine invasion.

The European Commission announced it might terminate or suspend funding for the Venice Biennale art exhibition if plans to reopen Russia's pavilion go forward. A spokesperson expressed dissatisfaction with the decision on Thursday.

During a news conference, spokesperson Thomas Regnier stated, "We condemn the decision to allow Russia at Venice's Biennale." The Commission disapproves of allowing Russian participation, asserting that European culture should support democratic values, open dialogue, and freedom of expression.

Russia's pavilion was initially closed following Moscow's 2022 invasion of Ukraine, which led to the exclusion of Russian artists from key European cultural events.

(With inputs from agencies.)