The Venice Biennale announced it has sent all the requested documentation to the Ministry of Culture today. The organization stressed that no rule was violated and that sanctions against the Russian Federation were fully observed, as required.
Salvini: 'No to russophobia'
Deputy Prime Minister Matteo Salvini weighed in, saying culture, art, music and sport should bring people closer, not increase tensions. He praised the Biennale for allowing anyone who applied to take part in pavilions they control, including artists who oppose their own governments.
Salvini pointed to a recent case in Rome where a top Russian ballerina, Svetlana Zakharova, reportedly had an invitation canceled by a dance festival. He said that move felt like "russophobia." He was clear that this is not about picking sides in a personal way. He also acknowledged that Russia carried out an act of aggression and that Italy is defending, supporting and funding Ukraine.
His main points
- Art and culture should build bridges, not deepen conflicts.
- The Biennale hosted those who applied, including dissident Russian artists.
- The canceled invitation to Svetlana Zakharova in Rome was described by Salvini as an example of prejudice against Russians.
- Italy supports Ukraine, but excluding artists is not seen as a tool to end the war and may complicate efforts for peace.
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