The Russian pavilion at the Venice Biennale was forced to close temporarily due to a protest by Pussy Riot, a prominent activist group known for its opposition to the Russian government. The protest occurred on the second day of the preview, with around 40 activists donning pink balaclavas, lighting flares, and chanting slogans such as “Blood is Russia’s Art.” Nadya Tolokonnikova, a founding member of Pussy Riot, expressed her outrage over the celebratory atmosphere at the pavilion, which featured crates of prosecco and loud music, calling it a stark contrast to the ongoing war in Ukraine. The protest comes amid a growing diplomatic row regarding Russia's participation, with reports indicating that the European Commission warned that allowing Russia to take part could violate EU sanctions. The biennale's jury had previously resigned in protest against the inclusion of countries whose leaders are subject to international arrest warrants, a decision that would exclude Russia. Following the Pussy Riot protest, another group, the Art Not Genocide Alliance, demonstrated outside the Israeli pavilion, further highlighting the intersection of art and political activism at the biennale. This year's event has seen a significant focus on political issues, reminiscent of past biennales that have addressed global conflicts.