Ukrainian Filmmaker Criticizes EU Funding Cut to Venice Biennale Over Russia Controversy

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 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 Ukrai...

By Philip Oltermann European culture editor