Thousands Protest Luxury Development Linked to Trump Family in Albania

Thousands of demonstrators gathered in Albania's capital, Tirana, to protest a controversial luxury development project linked to Donald Trump's family. The protest, described as the largest since demonstrations began in late May, saw participants waving Albanian and U.S. flags and releasing red balloons. Protesters projected the slogan "Albania is not for sale" onto the Prime Minister's office.

The demonstrations have broadened beyond the development project to include widespread criticism of Prime Minister Edi Rama's government. Protesters are accusing authorities of corruption and are demanding Rama's resignation. Many Albanian expatriates traveled specifically to participate in the rally, highlighting the national and international attention the project has garnered.

The planned luxury resort is slated for Zvernec, approximately 150 kilometers southwest of Tirana, along the southern Adriatic coast. The project is reportedly connected to Ivanka Trump and her husband, Jared Kushner. Additionally, plans include transforming Sazan Island, a historically secret communist military base, into a tourist resort. The area targeted for development, the Vjosa-Narta lagoon, is a significant resting place for migratory birds and flamingos, raising environmental concerns.

Authorities have initiated legal proceedings against numerous demonstrators for alleged public order and safety violations. Despite these actions, protests have continued nightly since late May, signaling a strong public opposition to the development and the government's handling of the situation.