Thousands Protest Against Kushner’s Adriatic Resort Plans
Protests Erupt Over Luxury Developments on Protected Albanian Coast
"Nobody can stop this project," said Prime Minister Edi Rama, vowing to continue despite widespread opposition.
Thousands of Albanians have taken to the streets to protest Jared Kushner's planned luxury resort developments on the Adriatic Coast. The demonstrations, which began in spring 2025 and have intensified in recent days, were sparked by the appearance of barbed wire and construction signage at the sites. Protesters have also circulated videos showing private security guards forcibly removing demonstrators.
Two Major Projects Under Scrutiny
Kushner's private equity fund, Affinity Partners, is developing two separate plots in Albania:
- A $1.4 billion resort on the uninhabited island of Sazan.
- A $4.7 billion resort on protected coastal land in Zvërnec.
Controversial Approvals and Legal Investigations
The Albanian government granted preliminary approval for the Sazan project in December 2024, shortly after Donald Trump's reelection. The project was designated with "strategic investor status" to expedite approvals. Officials deny the timing was an attempt to curry favor with the incoming Trump administration.
The developments sit within an environmentally protected area that is home to numerous wildlife species. In January 2025, 41 environmental groups urged the government to halt construction-related decisions. Adding to the controversy, anti-corruption prosecutors are investigating 2024 law changes that eased tourism development on protected land. The scope and timeline of that probe remain unclear.
Government Response and Security Crackdown
Prime Minister Edi Rama has been unequivocal: the project will proceed under his leadership. "No one can stop this project," he stated, emphasizing the importance of welcoming international investors. However, the government has taken some action in response to the protests, revoking the licenses of two private security companies and arresting one guard following reports of assaults on demonstrators.
Financial Details and Investor Profile
Under the strategic investor agreement, Kushner's company will not be taxed for 10 years during the construction phase. No final plans have been submitted to the government, and construction has not yet begun.
Kushner described the Sazan resort as a "very high-end luxury product" that he wants for his own family and friends. Ivanka Trump, on a podcast, said she was "captivated" by the island and that the project reflects "how I want to live."
Meanwhile, Asher Abehsera, chairman of Sazan Real Estate Development LLC, stated the focus is on "responsible stewardship, environmental enhancement, job creation, and creating long-term value."
Background and International Connections
Affinity Partners' primary funding comes from abroad, including government wealth funds from Saudi Arabia, Qatar, and the United Arab Emirates. Richard Grenell, Trump's envoy for special missions, reportedly introduced Kushner to investment opportunities in Albania and acted as Affinity's "business broker" in the region. Kushner first discovered Sazan while on a yacht owned by financier Nat Rothschild.
This is not the first time Kushner has pursued a controversial project in the Balkans. He previously planned a Trump-branded property in Belgrade, Serbia, but backed out in December 2025 after four Serbian government officials were charged with abuse of power and forgery in connection with that project.