Venice Biennale jury resigns amid Russia crisis

On April 30, 2026, all five members of the Venice Biennale jury resigned, citing the crisis triggered by Russia's presence at the event. The resignations highlight ongoing tensions within the international art community over Russia's participation following its invasion of Ukraine. The Biennale, one of the world's most prestigious art exhibitions, has faced pressure from artists and activists to exclude Russian participants. The jury's departure is a significant escalation, potentially disrupting the selection process for the upcoming edition. The Biennale's organizers have not yet announced replacements or commented on the impact. This development comes amid broader cultural fallout from the war, with many institutions reassessing ties with Russian entities.