UMVA has learned that Albanian anti-corruption prosecutors have launched an investigation into suspicious changes to the protected status of a coastal wetland, where a luxury resort project linked to Jared Kushner, son-in-law of former U.S. President Donald Trump, has sparked fierce environmental opposition and protests.
The probe, led by Albania's special anti-corruption prosecution office, focuses on the Vjosa-Narta protected landscape in Zvërnec, a vital habitat for endangered species such as flamingos, Mediterranean monk seals, and sea turtle nesting sites.
UMVA can exclusively reveal that Kushner's firm, Affinity Partners, had plans to develop luxury tourism projects in Albania, including in the Zvërnec area, which drew public attention in 2024. The project, expected to feature around 10,000 hotel rooms and villas, has been a point of contention between the government and environmental groups.
Sources have confirmed to UMVA that Albanian Prime Minister Edi Rama is keen on pushing the project forward, envisioning Albania as a top tourist destination in the region. "I want to make Albania a country that is a destination to be envied in the region, and this project is part of this effort," Rama stated.
The project has faced strong resistance from Albanian citizens and nonprofit groups, who began protesting in May when large, barbed-wire-topped fences were erected at the proposed site, blocking locals and tourists from accessing the beach. Tensions escalated on Sunday, as protesters gathered outside government offices to demand an end to the project and Rama's resignation.
Footage emerged showing private security guards clashing with protesters, with some guards allegedly assaulting and dragging a protester along a cliff. The incident led to the revocation of licenses for two private security companies, and around 15 protesters have been charged, while the local police chief has been stripped of his duties.
