EU Condemns Violence at Albanian Protests in Tirana and Other Cities

The European Commission condemned the use of violence during protests in Tirana and other Albanian cities, while welcoming the authorities' commitment to protect the right to protest. The statement follows mass student demonstrations demanding the prime minister's resignation. The protests, fueled by anger over government corruption, unemployment, and low education standards, spread across Albania last week. Police chief explained the RENEA special forces' involvement, citing a call about armed individuals among protesters. Prime Minister Edi Rama rejected resignation calls, claiming foreign interests were behind the unrest. Rama stated the protests threaten Albania's EU integration progress rather than his government. He also alleged an attempted drone attack on his office last week. The Commission's response comes amid escalating tensions between the government and demonstrators.