Here’s what happened.
Albanian Prime Minister Edi Rama is pushing back against what he calls misleading international coverage surrounding growing protests over a major luxury development tied to Jared Kushner, President Donald Trump’s son-in-law.
As demonstrations continue across Albania, Rama has argued that media reports have dramatically overstated both the size of the protests and the level of public opposition to the project.
In a series of posts on social media platform X, Rama defended the proposed investment and criticized what he described as sensationalized reporting. He shared video footage of a recent demonstration that he claimed drew roughly 2,000 participants, calling it one of the smallest turnouts seen so far.
According to Rama, even the largest protests have attracted no more than 8,000 people nationwide, far fewer than some reports have suggested.
“How did a local protest involving a few thousand people become an international headline?” Rama questioned, arguing that outside observers are getting a distorted picture of what is happening inside the country.
Kushner-Backed Resort Sparks Debate
At the center of the controversy is a proposed multibillion-dollar tourism project connected to Kushner’s investment firm. The development would transform sections of Albania’s southern Adriatic coastline into an upscale resort destination featuring luxury hotels, private villas, and a marina.
Supporters view the project as a historic opportunity to bring investment, jobs, and international attention to Albania. Critics, however, argue that the development could threaten environmentally sensitive areas and permanently alter some of the country’s most scenic coastal landscapes.
Despite the criticism, Rama insists no final approval has been granted and says environmental standards will remain a top priority throughout the review process.
The Albanian leader described the project as part of a broader vision to elevate Albania into one of Europe’s premier tourism destinations.
According to Rama, current plans could ultimately increase green space while improving environmental conditions in the area. He argued that opponents are focusing on speculation rather than facts and emphasized that the proposal remains under evaluation.
Environmental Groups Raise Concerns
Environmental activists remain unconvinced.
Opponents have focused much of their criticism on proposed construction near the Narta Lagoon and Sazan Island. The lagoon is considered one of Albania’s most important wetland ecosystems and serves as a habitat for migratory birds, including flamingos, as well as marine wildlife such as sea turtles and seals.
Activists claim construction activity has already begun in parts of the area, with reports of heavy equipment clearing land, creating access routes, and installing fencing.
The controversy has also expanded beyond environmental concerns. Questions have been raised about land ownership, government transparency, and whether proper procedures were followed during the planning process.
Albania’s anti-corruption authorities have reportedly opened an investigation into aspects of the project, including issues related to property ownership claims.
Rama Stands Firm
Despite mounting criticism, Rama has made it clear that he remains committed to moving forward with the investment.
The prime minister praised the project’s financial backers and highlighted the potential economic benefits, including billions of euros in new investment and thousands of jobs tied to tourism growth.
Rama argued that Albania should welcome major international investments rather than fear them, describing the development as an opportunity to strengthen the country’s future.
“There is no chance this investment will stop while I am in office,” Rama said, signaling his determination to see the project move forward.
Protests Continue
Meanwhile, demonstrations continue in Albania’s capital city of Tirana and other parts of the country.
Protesters have carried signs and flamingo symbols to highlight environmental concerns while chanting slogans opposing the development. Many argue that local communities deserve a greater voice in decisions involving large-scale foreign investment projects.
As debate intensifies, the battle over the proposed resort has become one of the most closely watched political and economic issues in Albania, drawing international attention because of its connection to the Trump family.
Whether the development ultimately moves forward or faces additional legal and political obstacles, the controversy shows no signs of fading anytime soon.