Albanian PM condemns ‘chaos’ as violent unrest spreads

Albanian Prime Minister Edi Rama faced condemnation over "chaos" as violent protests engulfed the capital Tirana and several smaller cities. Demonstrators, primarily students, demanded the prime minister's resignation and improved support for students, citing poor university conditions and exorbitant tuition fees. Clashes erupted between protesters and police, resulting in the use of water cannons and tear gas.

Some protesters targeted government buildings, banks, and shopfronts, setting at least one building ablaze. The unrest spread to cities like Shkodra and Korce, where windows were smashed and streets blocked. Journalist Teftalia Papa expressed frustration, stating that despite demanding change, people still struggle to access basic services, with students particularly burdened by rising costs.

Rama blamed opposition figures for the violence and vowed that those responsible would face consequences. The European Union condemned the escalation, urging protesters to exercise restraint and calling for an investigation into allegations of excessive police force. Over 65 people were arrested, and 71 police officers were injured.