On the day the Italian Ministry of Culture is set to receive paperwork from the Biennale regarding the reopening of the contested Russian pavilion, Pietrangelo Buttafuoco, the president of the Venice Biennale, is in Rome. Instead of meeting with officials at the Ministry, he chooses to go to a different location 750 meters away. At 2:51 PM, he is spotted by Repubblica entering a venue, raising questions about his agenda and the implications for the ongoing debate surrounding the Russian pavilion's status amidst the backdrop of international sanctions.

This situation follows a turbulent period regarding the reopening of the Russian pavilion at the Biennale, which has faced backlash given the geopolitical tensions between Italy and Russia. Many critics argue that hosting a Russian pavilion contradicts the sanctions imposed due to Russia's actions, particularly the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. The Biennale's decision-making processes, especially those involving international politics and cultural exchange, have come under scrutiny, prompting discussions about the role of arts institutions in navigating political landscapes.

Buttafuoco's meeting with La Russa, a notable political figure, adds another layer to this complex narrative. It suggests a potential alignment or external influence on the arts community in Italy regarding international relations. As the situation unfolds, it remains to be seen how the Biennale will reconcile its cultural mission with the stark realities of global politics, and whether the heritage of art can be shielded from the ramifications of current events.