Edi Rama defends Kushner-linked resort as Albanian protests grow

The Vjosa dispute follows earlier clashes over development in Albania's protected landscapes. Albanian authorities formally designated the Vjosa River and its tributaries as a national park on 15 March 2023, and Tourism and Environment Minister Mirela Kumbaro said at the time that the park covered more than 12,700 hectares. Environmentalists nevertheless also warned in 2023 that Vlora airport near the Vjosa delta could damage protected lagoons. In 2024, Albania loosened rules for five-star tourism projects in protected areas, according to conservation groups cited in current reporting, setting the stage for today's backlash.

The project sits at the intersection of US political-business influence, Western Balkan enlargement and Mediterranean tourism competition. Albania wants foreign capital and closer EU integration; the EU wants credible rule-of-law and environmental standards in candidate states; the Trump family connection turns a domestic planning dispute into a broader test of influence and accountability.

The story is timely because protests have escalated since late May 2026 after preparatory activity and fencing near sensitive areas drew public anger, while Rama's June defence signalled that the government is not stepping back.