U.S. Revokes Travel Restrictions on Former Albanian Leader Sali Berisha

After three years under a U.S.-imposed travel ban, former Albanian Prime Minister Sali Berisha announced that the State Department has cleared him and his family to enter the country. The reversal follows a rigorous internal review, ending a designation that had sidelined the veteran opposition figure since 2021.

Editorial·June 12, 2026·reads: 3,594

U.S. Revokes Travel Restrictions on Former Albanian Leader Sali Berisha

Berisha, who led Albania during his tenure as prime minister, had been barred from U.S. entry over allegations of corruption. Following his announcement on social media, a State Department spokesperson confirmed to Reuters that travel waivers were granted for specific designations, noting that the decision aligns with current national interest priorities.

While the former leader characterized the original ban as an unfair political maneuver, the timing of the lifting coincides with heightening tensions in Tirana. Domestic protests are currently targeting a contentious luxury resort project involving Jared Kushner, the son-in-law of President-elect Donald Trump. The move signals a potential diplomatic recalibration as regional political dynamics shift ahead of broader international developments.