Tens of thousands of students in Tirana clashed with police during violent protests over education costs and corruption, damaging government buildings and setting fires. At least 35 people were detained, with 23 officers injured as protesters attacked the education ministry and two banks.
Protesters, demanding Prime Minister Edi Rama's resignation, attacked government offices and shops, smashing windows and setting fire to multiple buildings. Interior Minister Ervin Demo blamed 'malicious hands of outsiders' for the violence, urging protesters to stop before more damage is done.
The EU expressed concern over the 'violent escalation' in Tirana, calling for a prompt investigation into police conduct and urging all sides to de-escalate tensions. Protests, which began over a luxury resort project linked to Trump's family, have continued for months, with calls for Rama's resignation and better university conditions.