Albanian Police Disperse Tirana Crowds, Injuring 300

More than 300 people, including protesters and police officers, sustained injuries on Saturday as security forces in Tirana used force to clear the streets.

Albanian authorities deployed water cannons, tear gas, and rubber bullets to break up an antigovernment rally that had turned violent. Dozens of demonstrators were taken into custody during the dispersal.

The confrontation escalated tensions after a period of relative calm. Organizers had called for students and residents from across the country to gather in the capital. The crowd included university professors, artists, and members of opposition parties who pledged support for the demonstration.

Local media reported that police increased security measures around Tirana and conducted vehicle checks on cars entering the city. The Ministry of Education became a primary target for the demonstrators. Participants threw stones at the structure and rolled burning trash bins toward the building.

This incident is part of a series of protests that began in mid-October. The initial unrest focused on poor conditions in schools and rising living costs. The demonstrations have roots in earlier unrest dating back to May, when reports surfaced regarding a luxury hotel project connected to the family of U.S. President Donald Trump.

Prime Minister Edi Rama, a Socialist, has attributed the recent violence to foreign actors. He accused Russia and Iran of spreading misinformation online while calling for dialogue. Red cushions were placed outside the government headquarters on Saturday as a symbolic gesture to invite discussion. Protesters set the cushions on fire later in the day.

Demonstrators have directed criticism at the entire political class. Signs within the crowd criticized Sali Berisha, the centre-right leader and Rama's main opposition rival. The unrest continues as public anger over corruption and economic conditions persists.