The Venice Biennale's decision to allow Russia to participate in its art exhibition for the first time since the 2022 invasion of Ukraine has faced widespread criticism. Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni's government opposed Russia's presence, calling it 'abject'. A group of MEPs condemned the decision, fearing it legitimizes a violent regime. Despite previous bans, Russia is set to participate with a project titled 'Tree rooted in the sky', featuring various artists. Critics argue this move is a cultural whitewash, with calls for protest against the Russian government at the event. Teljes cikk (Euronews.com)