Overview
- Mass demonstrations by students and young people have continued for a sixth day in Tirana, with large crowds confronting police across the city.
- Security forces have stepped up measures, using water cannons, tear gas and rubber bullets for the first time in this movement to disperse protesters.
- Official tallies report dozens wounded and hundreds hurt since the week began, with health authorities citing dozens treated and multiple hospitalizations.
- The unrest has caused significant damage and arson to public and commercial buildings, and police have carried out multiple arrests and opened legal investigations.
- Prime Minister Edi Rama rejected calls to resign in a long video statement blaming outside forces, while the U.S. Embassy urged calm and peaceful protest and warned against violence.