Albania's 'Flamingo Revolution' Fights Kushner-Trump Resort on Sazan Island

Protests have erupted in Albania over a billion-dollar luxury resort project linked to Jared Kushner and Ivanka Trump. Demonstrators have gathered in Tirana for seven straight nights, opposing what they call a lack of transparency and environmental harm. The development on Sazan Island has sparked outrage, with activists warning of damage to wildlife, including flamingo habitats and sea turtle nests. Excavators and bulldozers arrived at the site last month, triggering public anger. Environmentalists claim the work has already destroyed at least one sea turtle nest, according to a local officer from PPNEA (Protection and Preservation of Natural Environment in Albania). The group also reported no public consultation took place before construction began.

Prime Minister Edi Rama has stood firm, insisting the project will proceed despite growing opposition. Meanwhile, Ivanka Trump referenced the resort in a recent interview with the *Founders* podcast. The development is part of a wider plan to turn Sazan Island into an upscale tourist destination. Protesters have named their movement the *Flamingo Revolution*, using the pink bird as a symbol of the wildlife they fear will be lost. Thousands have marched nightly in Tirana, demanding accountability and an end to alleged corruption. Aleksandr Trajce, PPNEA’s executive director, added that the government has not released the development permit, raising further concerns about secrecy.

The controversy centres on environmental risks and unanswered questions about the project’s approval. Hotels are also planned in the nearby Vjosa-Narta protected zone, an area known for its biodiversity. With construction underway and protests continuing, the dispute shows no signs of slowing down.