Violent student-led protests have entered their third consecutive day in Albania, with clashes erupting in the capital, Tirana, and spreading to other cities. Demonstrators have engaged in running battles with riot police, smashing windows and causing damage to government buildings. In response, police have deployed tear gas and water cannons to disperse the crowds and have detained several individuals.
The protesters are demanding the resignation of Prime Minister Edi Rama, citing widespread corruption and the neglect of education and studying conditions. Particular anger has been directed at a deal to sell parts of Albania's pristine southern coastline for a luxury resort development backed by Jared Kushner.
Prime Minister Rama has rejected calls to resign and condemned the chaos. He accused the opposition and unnamed foreign forces of stoking the violent demonstrations in an attempt to derail Albania's efforts to join the European Union. While refusing to step down, the Prime Minister has offered to meet with demonstrators to end the tensions.