Trump's son-in-law faces protests in Albania over luxury resort project
Protest in Albania against Kushner's resort project (photo: Getty Images)
Donald Trump's son-in-law, Jared Kushner, and Ivanka Trump are facing a wave of fierce protests in Albania over plans to build luxury resorts. Residents and environmental activists are demanding an immediate halt to development on protected land along the Adriatic coast, Forbes reports.
Kushner's Affinity Partners fund plans to develop two unique sites. The first is the uninhabited island of Sazan. The project is valued at $1.4 billion. The second location is in Zvërnec, part of a protected landscape, where $4.7 billion is planned to be invested.
Jared Kushner is working on the projects together with his wife and has already said that the Sazan resort will be a "very high-end luxury product" that he would like to see as "the ideal resort that I'd want to be at with my family and with my friends."
The Albanian government gave preliminary approval in December 2024, almost immediately after Donald Trump's reelection to a second term. The project was granted special strategic investor status, allowing permits to be obtained through an expedited process.
Critics are convinced this is an attempt to buy influence. They believe Albanian authorities are seeking favor with the new US administration, although officials deny those accusations.
At the same time, Kushner continues to seek funding for his investment fund from foreign governments. Most of its capital comes from Saudi Arabia, Qatar, and the UAE.
Environmental impact and protests
The resort development by Trump's son-in-law threatens wildlife, as the projects are planned in environmentally protected areas. In January, 41 environmental groups appealed to the government, demanding a suspension of any decisions related to the construction.
Protests by Albanians began in the spring. At that time, barbed wire appeared along the coastline. In recent days, the situation has escalated, and videos have surfaced online showing private security guards forcibly dispersing demonstrators. Authorities have already arrested one security guard and revoked the licenses of two security companies.
Anti-corruption investigation
Albania's Special Anti-Corruption Prosecution Office is currently examining legal amendments introduced in 2024. Those changes made it easier to develop tourism projects on protected land. Investigators are checking whether the amendments were made specifically to benefit Kushner.
The consequences of the investigation remain unclear. However, it could block construction for an indefinite period.
Position of the Albanian government and the developer
Prime Minister Edi Rama said the country must remain welcoming to major investors.
"It is very important that we remain welcoming, that we remain fair, and that under no circumstances do we receive the stigma of being a country where investors are met with hostility. There is absolutely no chance that the investment will stop as long as I am here," the official said.
Representatives of the developer have also promised to comply with regulations. Asher Abehsera, chairman of the Sazan Real Estate Development LLC, emphasized:
"Our focus remains on responsible stewardship, environmental enhancement, job creation, and creating long-term value for local communities. We respect the ongoing public and institutional processes."
