Tirana protests turn violent as police clash with stone-throwing demonstrators

newsit.gr (Greek) — October 18, 2026 at 01:01 PM UTC

Violent clashes erupted in Tirana on October 18, 2026, as protesters attacked police with stones and fire during a sixth consecutive day of demonstrations demanding Prime Minister Edi Rama's resignation over corruption and economic grievances. Protesters targeted the Supreme Court and Central Bank, causing fires and damage, while dozens of shops were vandalized. Rama warned that "those who choose stones and masks will face the state," and ordered sidewalks near his office removed to prevent use as projectiles. At least 65 people were hospitalized and over 30 arrested. Rama blamed foreign interference, citing Russia and Iran, and dismissed the protests as a plot to undermine Albania's EU accession goals by 2030.

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