Russia at the Venice Biennale: European Greens criticise Meloni

Brussels – Controversy and criticism continue to mount over Russia’s participation in the 61st Venice Biennale, which opens on 9 May. Following the stop by the European Commission and a debate held in the EU Council at Latvia’s request, fresh pressure is being brought to bear on Italy by the European Greens, who are directly attacking the Prime Minister: “Failing to take the necessary measures in time is, in itself, a choice not to act“, thunders Ciarán Cuffe, co-president of the party, convinced that “the Italian government led by Giorgia Meloni bears direct responsibility for allowing this situation to escalate.” The Russian pavilion, Cuffe continues, “is linked to Russian state actors, and using artistic independence as an excuse to avoid political decisions is unacceptable.” 

The other co-chair of the Greens adds fuel to the fire: “The Italian government chose not to fulfil its role when it was needed,” criticises Vula Tsetsi, who is also explicit in pointing the finger at the Italian government and its president. “Allowing Russia to return to the Venice Biennale, in the midst of its war of aggression against Ukraine, and while Europe maintains sanctions and a clear political stance, is not a neutral act: it is a political choice.” The request to Palazzo Chigi and the majority parties is therefore straightforward: “The Meloni government must prevent the Russian pavilion from being present at the Venice Biennale.”