On Sunday, a court in Tirana released 19 people detained during violent protests over a controversial coastal resort project linked to President Donald Trump’s family, even as broader anti-corruption demonstrations continue to spread across Albania.

Albania Court Frees Protesters After Tirana Clashes

The protesters were arrested during clashes with police and initially accused of "refusing to obey police orders, organizing illegal demonstrations and disturbing public order," according to their lawyer, reported Al Jazeera.

The court ruled that most would be freed without charges, while two were placed under house arrest and 12 were required to report regularly to judicial authorities.

Demonstrators and supporters outside the courthouse cheered the decision, chanting "Free the boys" as nightly protests continued across Tirana.

Albania Protests Escalate

The unrest began in May over a luxury coastal resort project linked to Trump’s son-in-law Jared Kushner, planned in a protected natural area.

Since then, the rallies have expanded into wider anti-government demonstrations targeting Albania’s leadership, including Albania's Prime Minister Edi Rama.

Protesters have also used slogans such as "New Albania" and "Edi Rama, resign," reflecting growing political frustration.

Clashes escalated outside parliament when police used tear gas, pepper spray and water cannons after demonstrators threw objects and attempted to breach security lines.

Authorities reported injuries among police officers and multiple detentions.

Sanders Criticizes Albania Protests

Last month, Sen. Bernie Sanders (I-Vt.) said protests in Albania against a luxury resort linked to Kushner reflected opposition to a "global oligarchy."

He said demonstrators opposed the project, describing it as environmentally harmful and backed by wealthy investors.

Sanders said the unrest showed growing resistance to elite influence, stating that "the people are saying NO" to global oligarchy.