Trump-Linked Albania Resort Faces Backlash Over Environmental Damage
Scientists and environmental groups warn that preliminary work on a luxury resort linked to the Trump family has caused lasting damage to Albania’s protected coastline and wildlife habitats.
Protected coastal habitat in Albania where a Trump-linked luxury resort project has sparked environmental protests.
TIRANA: Environmental experts and activists say preliminary work on a luxury Albania resort linked to the Trump family has already caused significant damage to one of the country’s most ecologically sensitive coastal areas.
Satellite imagery reviewed by researchers shows that within a 25-day period in May, construction crews cleared access roads, removed large sections of forest and built a bridge connecting the Narta Lagoon to the Adriatic Sea.
Scientists say the work began before the main construction phase and has already altered the area’s fragile ecosystem.
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Scientists Warn of Lasting Ecological Damage
Marine biologist Olsi Nika, head of EcoAlbania, said bulldozers destroyed nesting sites used by endangered loggerhead sea turtles.
Researchers also reported that newly built access roads cut through protected sand dunes and disturbed habitats used by several bird species, including flamingos.
Experts added that construction activity disrupted the natural water flow between the lagoon and the sea, threatening the wetlands that support a wide range of wildlife.
University of Tirana professor Ferdinand Bego described the environmental impact as largely irreversible, warning that the protected area’s natural heritage had already suffered severe damage.
Luxury Project Draws Public Opposition
The estimated $5.1 billion development was first announced in 2024 by Jared Kushner, the son-in-law of US President Donald Trump.
The project proposes luxury hotels and tourism facilities on a protected peninsula and a nearby island along Albania’s Adriatic coast.
Public opposition has intensified in recent months after developers installed fencing and increased activity around the construction site.
Environmental activists have staged daily demonstrations, arguing that the development threatens one of Albania’s most valuable natural landscapes.
Private security personnel reportedly intervened during one protest, increasing public criticism of the project.
Government Defends Investment
Prime Minister Edi Rama has defended the project, describing it as one of Europe’s most ambitious tourism developments.
The Albanian government says the investment will create jobs, attract international visitors and strengthen the country’s tourism industry.
Officials argue that the project will help Albania compete with neighbouring destinations such as Croatia, Montenegro and Greece.
European Union Raises Environmental Concerns
The controversy has also attracted attention from the European Union, as Albania continues its efforts to join the bloc.
EU Enlargement Commissioner Marta Kos recently urged Albania to repeal amendments to environmental protection laws and revise legislation governing strategic investments.
Scientists who inspected the site in June warned that continued large-scale construction could permanently damage the protected ecosystem and threaten biodiversity across the region.
