Petition with Thousands of Signatories Challenges Russia's Return to Venice Biennale

A petition organized by the Arts Against Aggression International Movement, signed by over 6,000 artists, curators, and cultural figures, calls on Venice Biennale leadership to reconsider Russia's planned participation in the 61st edition. The Biennale recently confirmed Russia will present a pavilion titled 'The Tree Is Rooted in the Sky' from May 9 to November 22, 2026, marking its first official return since 2022. Signatories, including Pussy Riot founder Nadya Tolokonnikova, argue this contradicts the Biennale's 2022 pledge to sever ties with Russian state entities while the war in Ukraine continues. The European Union has warned it may suspend funding, and the Italian government has stated its opposition to the decision. The controversy highlights ongoing debates about the role of cultural institutions during geopolitical conflicts.