Ukrainian film-maker criticises EU after it cuts Venice Biennale funding over Russia controversy
Ukrainian filmmaker Sergei Loznitsa criticized the European Commission for cutting funding to the Venice Biennale following the inclusion of a Russian pavilion. Loznitsa argued that the move is a performative distraction from the EU's continued reliance on Russian fossil fuel imports.
Why it matters
This highlights the ongoing tension between cultural boycotts and the economic realities of international sanctions during the Russia-Ukraine conflict.
Sergei Loznitsa at the Cannes film festival in May last year. Sergei Loznitsa at the Cannes film festival in May last year. Venice film festival Ukrainian film-maker criticises EU after it cuts Venice Biennale funding over Russia controversy Sergei Loznitsa likens removal of €2m grant to ‘a punishment in kindergarten’ on eve of Venice film festival
Prefer the Guardian on Google One of Ukraine’s most acclaimed film-makers has criticised the European Commission’s decision to cut off funds to the Venice Biennale over the opening of Russia’s pavilion, likening it to “a punishment in kindergarten”.
The Biennale drew heavy criticism this spring when it allowed Russia to use its pavilion for the first time since 2022, despite the ongoing full-scale invasion of Ukraine.
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