Albanian protests and investigation target Kushner-linked luxury resort
Albanian anti-corruption prosecutors and thousands of demonstrators clashed over a planned luxury resort tied to Jared Kushner on Sazan Island and in the capital Tirana. Politico. eu reported that the Special Prosecution Against Corruption and Organized Crime opened an inquiry after environmental groups raised concerns. The Times of Israel and Forbes noted that the protests grew to thousands, with demonstrators demanding government action over potential ecological damage and alleged corruption. Politico.
eu later quoted the European Commission as warning that the development could breach EU environmental rules and jeopardize Albania’s accession talks. The Daily Beast quoted Prime Minister Edi Rama defending the project, claiming media exaggeration and emphasizing its economic potential. According to The Daily Beast, residents of Sazan Island alleged that a Miami-based businessman with alleged organized-crime ties sold the land illegally, prompting legal challenges that could delay the multibillion-dollar resort. NPR reported that daily demonstrations continued in Tirana, with protesters citing environmental protection and legal concerns.