Protests Erupt in Albania Over Controversial Resort Linked to Jared Kushner

In Tirana, Albania, thousands of citizens gathered to protest against a coastal tourism complex they believe is connected to Jared Kushner, son-in-law of former U.S. President Donald Trump. The demonstrators chanted demands to 'Cancel the project' and held signs proclaiming 'Albania is not for sale' and 'Ivanka, go home,' targeting Kushner’s wife, Ivanka Trump.

The project involves hotel construction on Sazan Island and in the protected coastal area of Vjosa-Narta, raising significant concerns about environmental damage and possible corruption. In response, the special prosecutor’s office for corruption and organized crime has opened an investigation into the funding behind the land acquisitions made for the project.

The protests gained momentum following a prior demonstration in Zvernec, where activists decried the installation of barbed wire restricting beach access. Tensions escalated when private security guards reportedly attacked several protesters, leading to disciplinary actions against multiple police officers and the revocation of licenses for two security firms.

While Kushner's previous plan to invest approximately 1.4 billion euros into transforming Sazan into a luxury resort was revealed two years ago, clear links between the current developments and his companies remain unverified. Prime Minister Edi Rama has suggested that protesters select a delegation to discuss their concerns, but the invite has so far been declined, with further protests scheduled.