The Venice Biennale is facing significant backlash for reinstating Russia's national pavilion, marking its return for the first time since the full-scale invasion of Ukraine. Activist groups, including Pussy Riot and Femen, protested outside the Russian pavilion, decrying Russia's presence as part of its "hybrid warfare" and condemning the use of art as a tool for soft power. Concerns have also been raised by the European Commission, which threatened to withdraw funding over ethical concerns. Adding to the controversy, the entire international jury resigned due to the inclusion of countries with leaders wanted by the ICC, specifically naming Russia and Israel, the latter also facing protests denouncing its exhibit as a "Genocide Pavilion."