The Ukrainian pavilion at the Venice Biennale showcases a nomadic deer sculpture designed to comment on Russia's ongoing war in Ukraine. This year’s exhibition, titled 'Security Guarantees,' reflects on the 1994 Budapest Memorandum, whereby Ukraine relinquished its nuclear arsenal in exchange for security assurances from the U.S. and the U.K. Artist Zhanna Kadyrova emphasizes the irony of these agreements, noting that despite the promises of protection, they only existed on paper amid real threats to Ukraine's sovereignty.

This year’s exhibit builds upon themes presented during the last Biennale in 2024, where the focus was similarly on the impacts of war, highlighting civilian preparedness initiatives. Kadyrova’s work serves as a poignant reminder of the consequences of geopolitical decisions, and how they resonate deeply in the lives of ordinary people in Ukraine. The nomadic deer sculpture not only symbolizes resilience but also evokes the haunting reality of conflict and loss that defines Ukraine’s current landscape.

As the war continues to evolve, the Ukrainian pavilion at Venice not only contributes to the art world but also elevates critical discourse on international security and the responsibilities of global powers towards nations in crisis. The visibility and discussion fostered by such exhibits are crucial for raising awareness about Ukraine's plight and fostering international solidarity against aggression.