Buttafuoco Defends Russia's Presence at Venice Biennale Amid Funding Loss

Pietrangelo Buttafuoco, the head of the Venice Biennale Foundation, affirmed that Russia will participate in the 61st Venice Biennale, despite facing backlash from the Italian government and the loss of €2 million in EU funding. In an interview with Corriere della Sera, he defended his decision as being within legal parameters. Russia's involvement was first revealed in March, coinciding with the invasion of Ukraine. The Foundation has stood against censorship, asserting that political reasons should not lead to the exclusion of nations. Italian Culture Minister Alessandro Giuli sought confirmation of adherence to EU sanctions. The European Commission retracted funding in July, emphasizing the importance of democratic values. Prior to the event, protests by Pussy Riot and Femen took place. Buttafuoco highlighted the triumph of art over politics, drawing on the Biennale's legacy.