Albania Protests: Police Fire Tear Gas at Tirana Rally

Police in Tirana used water cannon, tear gas, and rubber bullets on Saturday to push back crowds at an antigovernment rally.

Authorities reported more than 300 injuries among protesters and police officers, along with dozens of arrests. Demonstrators threw stones at the Ministry of Education and rolled burning waste bins toward the building. Several other government structures were also attacked.

The capital had seen quieter days earlier in the week, but organizers called on students and others from across Albania to attend Saturday's gathering. University professors, artists, and opposition parties announced support for the rally. Local media reported police increased security around Tirana and checked cars entering the city.

Protesters have gathered intermittently since May, when details emerged about a luxury hotel project linked to the family of United States President Donald Trump. Demonstrators are seeking the resignation of Socialist Prime Minister Edi Rama. Red cushions placed outside the government headquarters as an invitation to dialogue were later set on fire by the crowd. Some marchers carried signs criticizing Rama's opposition rival, centre-right leader Sali Berisha.

Rama has blamed "foreign actors" for the violence and accused Russia and Iran of spreading online misinformation. The prime minister has also called for dialogue.

Protests began in mid-October over school conditions and the cost of living. Clashes between demonstrators and police have occurred repeatedly since then.

No further rallies have been announced in the source material.