The online festival is scheduled to take place online from November 1 to November 15, under the theme of "Cinema Unites." It includes over 20 films from 2016 to 2022, representing various countries within Europe, including co-productions with Russia. Last year's festival was cancelled due to Russia's invasion of Ukraine in February 2022. However, Ukrainian officials argue that cultural dialogue with Russia cannot resume while the war rages on.
"Over 1,700 cultural sites across Ukraine have been damaged since the war began," said Ukraine's Culture Minister in a statement. "Resuming cultural events with Russia amidst the ongoing destruction of our cultural heritage is unacceptable."
Ukraine's State Film Agency has called for a full cultural boycott, stating that "victory for Ukraine requires a united stance from the global cultural community." Several Ukrainian artists and cultural figures have been killed since Russia launched its full-scale invasion. The European Union's ambassador to Russia defended the decision, saying that "Russian culture is part of Europe's heritage" and "cinema can help overcome boundaries." But Ukrainian officials stated that holding an arts event in Russia "ignores the reality of Russia's continuous attacks on Ukraine's cities and culture." The festival has cast further doubt on the effectiveness of EU sanctions on Russia.
"Unity and a consistent stance from the entire European community is needed," the Ukrainian Institute said, urging the EU to reconsider its decision. "Until the war ends, participating in cultural events with Russia sends the wrong message."
