Albanian Court Releases Protesters Amid Uproar Over Coastal Resort Development

An Albanian court in Tirana has released 19 individuals detained during protests against a controversial luxury resort development linked to the family of US President Donald Trump. The unrest, centered around environmental and corruption concerns associated with the project, has sparked widespread anti-government sentiment.

Following accusations including organizing illegal demonstrations and disturbing public order, the court's decision saw two protesters placed under house arrest and 12 ordered to report regularly to judicial authorities. The remaining five were cleared of charges, eliciting jubilation among supporters rallying under the motto ‘Free the boys’ outside the courtroom.

Protests have intensified since May, initially targeting the impact of the resort development in a protected coastal area but evolving into broader demonstrations against perceived government corruption. The scale of unrest escalated last week, with confrontations outside the parliament leading to injuries and detentions as police employed tear gas and water cannons to control the crowds.

Demonstrations have gathered momentum, becoming the largest since the movement's inception in 2024, as opposition grows against the government of Prime Minister Edi Rama. The situation remains precarious, with calls for resignations amid heightened tensions and accusations of corruption echoing through Tirana's streets.