MEPs urge EU to block Russia from Venice Biennale

Members of the European Parliament have called on the European Commission to block Russia from participating in the 61st Venice Biennale, warning that allowing its return would undermine trust in the European Union.

In a letter addressed to Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, EU foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas, and other senior officials, MEPs urged “urgent and decisive steps” to prevent Russia’s involvement. The letter, obtained by Euronews, criticises the biennale’s organisers for readmitting Russia while the war in Ukraine continues.

Lawmakers argued that a country under extensive EU sanctions should not be allowed to take part in an event funded by European taxpayers. They warned that reopening the Russian pavilion would “raise the prestige and give legitimacy” to a state whose actions have stripped it of both.

Ukraine’s Foreign Ministry backed the appeal. Spokesperson Georgiy Tykhiy said Russia continues to reject proposals to end the war and dismisses dialogue, contradicting the biennale’s stated mission.

“We are not calling for a ban on culture or art,” he said, but questioned why organisers had changed their stance since earlier in the war, when Russia’s participation was restricted and its aggression was explicitly condemned.

Tykhiy described Russia’s inclusion as “immoral” amid ongoing strikes on Ukrainian cities and cultural sites, arguing that culture and state policy in Russia are closely intertwined. He warned that participation in major international events can serve as a tool of influence and help “whitewash” the war.

By Tamilla Hasanova