Russia's pavilion at the 2026 Venice Biennale will be closed to the public for the duration of the exhibition, from May 9 to November 22, following escalating controversy over the country's participation. The group show, titled “The tree is rooted in the sky,” will only be open to press and industry insiders during the preview days (May 5–8). The move comes after the International Criminal Court accused Russia of crimes against humanity, leading the Biennale to bar Russia and Israel from competing for awards. Italian culture minister Alessandro Giuli has also boycotted the preview and opening ceremony in protest.
This development matters because it reflects deepening international tensions over cultural diplomacy and sanctions in the wake of Russia's invasion of Ukraine. The European Union recently cut $2.3 million in funding for the 2028 Biennale, with EU foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas stating that Russia should not be allowed to exhibit while it destroys Ukrainian cultural heritage. The Biennale Foundation has defended its actions, insisting it complied with all applicable laws and sanctions. The controversy underscores the growing politicization of major art events and the challenges institutions face in balancing artistic inclusion with geopolitical accountability.