Albanian Students Clash With Police in Tirana

Student-led protests in Albania entered a third day of violence in Tirana, spread to other cities and prompted students to boycott universities. Protesters cite high education costs, poor facilities and limited opportunities, while the unrest has merged with a broader movement demanding Prime Minister Edi Rama’s resignation over corruption allegations and a controversial coastal resort project linked to Jared Kushner. Clashes, fires and damage to government buildings, banks and businesses left dozens injured and dozens detained; police used tear gas and water cannons, and parliament canceled a session. Rama rejected calls to resign, citing his government’s electoral mandate, offered to discuss education concerns and blamed opposition forces for the violence. Albanian officials condemned the violence, and the EU delegation urged authorities to respond proportionately.