In response to the Russian delegation's presence, the European Union has withdrawn €2 million in funding from the Venice Biennale, one of Italy's most esteemed cultural institutions. The EACEA, the EU's executive agency for education and culture, has suspended support for the Biennale's renowned film education programs. They argue that publicly supported cultural activities must defend democratic norms, which are currently denied in Russia. At the centre of the dispute is the historic Russian Pavilion in the Giardini, which remained open to industry professionals during the festival's preview days. While the Italian Ministry of Culture has described the decision as an ideological attack on the country's cultural autonomy, the Biennale Foundation has stated that it will appeal to all relevant authorities. The Venice Biennale has also assured international audiences that the cuts will have no significant impact on its budget or ongoing event programming.