Russia's Return to the Venice Biennale: Implications and Reactions

For the first time since its withdrawal following the 2022 invasion of Ukraine, Russia will participate in the Venice Biennale in 2026. The Russian pavilion will showcase a project titled *The Tree is Rooted in the Sky*, featuring over fifty artists, including both Russian and international contributors. Mikhail Shvydkoi, Russia's special representative for international cultural cooperation, confirmed that the pavilion is set to open in May 2026, emphasizing that Russia has never truly left the Biennale, but is instead seeking new forms of creative expression.

The Russian Pavilion Returns to the Venice BiennaleUnited24 MediaRussia officially participates in Venice Biennale 2026 after two editions of absenceVenice Biennale 2026, Russia returns: here's who's behind the regime pavilion

Anastasia Karneeva has been appointed as the commissioner of the Russian pavilion. She is notably the daughter of Sergey Lavrov, Russia's Foreign Minister, and has connections to high-level political circles. Karneeva has previously managed the Russian branch of Christie’s auction house and co-founded the Smart Art company. Shvydkoi, who has a history of advocating for Russian cultural presence abroad, has also been vocal about the importance of the pavilion in countering what he describes as Western attempts to erase Russian culture.

Venice Biennale 2026, Russia returns: here's who's behind the regime pavilion

Ukraine's cultural community has expressed concern over Russia's return to the Biennale. Ksenia Malykh, co-curator of the Ukrainian pavilion, noted that Russia's participation was anticipated, given its ongoing efforts to engage with international art platforms. Malykh emphasized the need for Ukraine to focus on its own pavilion, aiming to present a powerful cultural project despite the backdrop of conflict.

United24 MediaThe Russian Pavilion Returns to the Venice BiennaleRussia officially participates in Venice Biennale 2026 after two editions of absenceVenice Biennale 2026, Russia returns: here's who's behind the regime pavilion

Critics argue that Russia's involvement in the Biennale serves as a tool for the Kremlin to project soft power and influence internationally, particularly amid ongoing tensions due to its actions in Ukraine. Shvydkoi's statements, which assert that Russia's presence signifies resilience against cultural isolation, have drawn skepticism from various quarters.

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Mikhail Shvydkoi stated, “The very presence of our pavilion... signifies the presence of our country in the cultural space of Venice.” He further asserted that “no sanctions can deprive Russia of the right to artistic expression.” In contrast, Malykh remarked, “Russia has all this time found ways to slip into important platforms in one form or another,” highlighting the ongoing tension between Russian and Ukrainian cultural narratives.

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While the Venice Biennale organization confirmed Russia's participation, it clarified that decisions regarding national participation are made by the countries themselves. There is a notable absence of official commentary from the Russian Ministry of Culture regarding the circumstances surrounding its previous withdrawal and the current participation.

Russia officially participates in Venice Biennale 2026 after two editions of absence

As the Biennale approaches, the focus will be on how the Russian pavilion's project unfolds and the international reactions it garners. The event is expected to feature a music festival with artists from various countries, aiming to create a dialogue among diverse cultures. The implications of Russia's participation will likely continue to be a point of contention in the broader context of international relations and cultural diplomacy.

The Russian Pavilion Returns to the Venice Biennale

• “We are simply seeking new forms of creative activity in the current circumstances,” he said.” — Mikhail Shvydkoi, Special Representative for International Cultural Cooperation

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• “The main thing we need to do is to present our project as powerfully as possible.” — Ksenia Malykh, Co-curator of the Ukrainian Pavilion

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