Albanian Police Use Tear Gas and Water Cannons as Protesters Try to Storm Government Building

In Tirana, Albania, police used rubber bullets, tear gas, and water cannons on Saturday after protesters attempted to storm the government building, with clashes turning violent. The protests, which drew larger crowds including teachers and opposition politicians, began peacefully but escalated as demonstrators threw stones and set fire to dumpsters. Police reinforced their presence as protesters dispersed across multiple areas of the capital. Prime Minister Edi Rama stated his cabinet is preparing measures to address living costs and youth opportunities, while warning of strict accountability for violence. He reiterated accusations of Russian and Iranian involvement in inciting the protests, claiming foreign interference aims to hinder Albania's EU accession.