Pussy Riot and FEMEN organized a coordinated protest titled “Storm of Venice” at the Russian Pavilion during the Venice Biennale preview on May 6, 2026. Over 50 Pussy Riot members wearing pink ski masks deployed pink smoke while chanting anti-regime slogans, joined by FEMEN activists using Ukrainian colors and flags. The demonstration blocked pavilion access for approximately 30 minutes, prompting Italian police intervention. Nadya Tolokonnikova criticized Russia’s participation, arguing that imprisoned anti-war artists better represent modern Russia than state-sanctioned exhibits. The protest coincided with broader controversy surrounding Russia’s return to the Biennale following its 2022 invasion of Ukraine—the pavilion had remained closed since then. Russian participation sparked international backlash, including European Commission threats to withdraw €2 million in funding and Italian government inspections. Pussy Riot and FEMEN contended the reopening violated European sanctions.
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