The European Union has confirmed it will cut its funding to the Venice Biennale following the event's decision to allow Russia's return to the exhibition. EU foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas announced the move, which was previously threatened, during a press conference focused on supporting Ukraine. Latvia and Finland have also stated they will not send government representatives if Russia's participation is maintained.
The funding cut highlights the ongoing politicization of major cultural events following Russia's invasion of Ukraine. It raises questions about the Biennale's autonomy and the power of its foundation to exclude nations with permanent pavilions, as Russia's participation proceeds under the title 'The Tree is Rooted in the Sky' with a focus on sound and experimental music from peripheral regions.