Thousands protest in Albania against Jared Kushner-linked resort project

Thousands of Albanians took to the streets in Tirana to protest a planned coastal tourism complex, which they allege is linked to Jared Kushner, son-in-law of former U.S. President Donald Trump. Protesters voiced strong opposition, chanting "Cancel the project," holding banners that read "Albania is not for sale," and specifically calling for Ivanka Trump, Kushner's wife, to "go home."

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Cancel the project

The demonstration focused on concerns over potential environmental damage and corruption associated with the resort project. The development plans include constructing hotel complexes on Sazan Island, a former secret military base, and in the protected Vjosa-Narta coastal area. The special prosecutor's office has initiated an investigation into the land titles' acquisition and subsequent sale to investors, signaling official scrutiny of the deal.

Tuesday's protest in the capital followed an earlier demonstration in Zvernec on Saturday, where environmental activists protested the installation of barbed wire that blocked beach access. Reports indicate that private security guards attacked and injured several protesters during that event, leading authorities to suspend police officers and revoke the licenses of two security companies.

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Albania is not for sale

While it remains unconfirmed that companies linked to Kushner have purchased the land surrounded by barbed wire, Kushner presented a plan for development projects in Albania two years ago. His proposal aimed to transform Sazan Island into a luxury tourist destination, with an estimated development value of 1.4 billion euros. Luxury hotels were also planned for Zvernec. In January, approximately 40 environmental organizations had already called for the suspension of these resort plans due to threats to biodiversity. Prime Minister Edi Rama invited a delegation of protesters to discuss solutions, but they rejected the offer and announced further gatherings.

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Ivanka, go home