Pussy Riot and FEMEN Protest Russian Pavilion at Venice Biennale

On May 6, approximately 50 protesters from FEMEN and Pussy Riot gathered outside the Russian pavilion at the Venice Biennale. This was the first protest against Russia's participation since its large-scale invasion of Ukraine in February 2022. The demonstration featured pink smoke, blue and yellow flares, and topless activists displaying anti-war slogans. Members of Pussy Riot, wearing pink balaclavas, performed their anthem "Disobey," while five FEMEN members waved Ukrainian flags. Security and police limited access, responding to those trying to enter. Inna Shevchenko of FEMEN condemned Russia's involvement, stating, "Russia is killing Ukrainians every day." The pavilion is only accessible during preview days (May 6-8) due to sanctions. Nadya Tolokonnikova of Pussy Riot called for artists who are imprisoned or in exile to represent Russia instead. This event was the first joint action between the two groups, with Pussy Riot formed in 2011 to oppose Putin's regime.