Russia’s war is not only being waged against Ukraine but also against the entire democratic world, including EU countries. After more than a year and a half of Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine, the Russian Federation is increasingly launching disinformation campaigns, both within Ukraine and well beyond its borders. By distorting facts and fabricating new manipulations, the Kremlin seeks to gain at least a tactical advantage in the information battle, hoping to momentarily shift global sentiment towards the Russian agenda. To achieve this, they exploit every possible sphere of influence: culture, sport, science, and history.

We deeply appreciate the support of our European partners and are confident that this assistance is sincere and conscious. Therefore, we find it regrettable that there has been a misunderstanding regarding the message about the resumption of the European Film Festival in Russia. We firmly believe that the entire European community must remain united and consistent in its fight against the evil embodied by the current terrorist state. The renewal of cultural cooperation under such circumstances is simply unacceptable.