Protests in Tirana Intensify as Demonstrators Clash with Police Over Corruption and Education Reforms

Protesters hurled stones, fireworks and other objects at riot police, who responded with tear gas and water cannons. Flames erupted in the city center, engulfing trees and a roadside structure as firefighters battled to contain the blaze.

Footage shows protesters moving through smoke-filled streets, dismantling police barriers and hurling tear-gas canisters back at officers. Shops and banks suffered damage, with some looted, while police reported widespread vandalism targeting ATMs, surveillance cameras, vehicles and fencing. Burnt-out cars, shattered windows and damaged office buildings littered the Albanian capital, where locals began clearing debris amid ongoing demonstrations.

What started as student-led protests three days ago, centered on the cost and quality of higher education, has escalated into a wider challenge to Prime Minister Edi Rama’s government. Participants demanding improved university funding, academic support and employment opportunities have aligned with the Flamingo movement, which opposes a luxury resort project tied to Jared Kushner and calls for Mr. Rama’s resignation amid corruption allegations.

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