A joint statement signed by representatives from Lithuania, Latvia, Estonia, Finland, Croatia, and France, along with artists and curators at the 2023 Venice Biennale representing Lithuania, Poland, the Czech Republic, and Slovakia, expressed strong disapproval of Russia's participation in the event. The signatories argue that allowing Russia to take part in the Biennale diminishes the international community's efforts to isolate the country amidst ongoing conflicts. They reference a decision by the European Union to halt any official cultural, educational, or scientific collaborations with Russian state institutions, stressing the importance of these actions in the current geopolitical landscape.

The signatories highlight that the Venice Biennale, being supported by the Italian state, has a moral obligation to uphold these principles of international solidarity. They point out the stark contrast between the values promoted during the Biennale and Russia's actions, which include a large-scale military conflict in Ukraine and ongoing aggression towards neighboring countries. This context underlines the seriousness of their concerns, pointing to the potential ramifications of normalizing Russia's presence in international cultural events despite its current geopolitical behavior.

In their statement, they call for an immediate cessation of Russia's participation in the Biennale, characterizing the Russian pavilion as a representative of a nation that continues to violate democratic values. The call to action underscores the broader implications of cultural representation in times of conflict, urging comprehensive responses that extend beyond political and military measures to include cultural institutions. Such a stance particularly resonates with ongoing discussions about the role of art and culture in promoting social and political values, highlighting the intertwined nature of cultural diplomacy and international relations during turbulent times.