Why is this important: The decision means three of Kosovo’s most prominent political figures will remain behind bars as the high-profile trial continues. Prosecutors argued that releasing them poses a risk of flight, potential intimidation of witnesses, and obstruction of justice.

Why is this important: The High Court must now elect Zaçaj’s successor in a special meeting. This decision is crucial for maintaining the full composition of the Constitutional Court, a key institution in Albania’s justice system and EU integration process.

Why is this important: Although a 24 hour debate had been scheduled, the session lasted less than 24 minutes. Eighty-two Socialist MPs voted in favor of Prime Minister Edi Rama’s cabinet, and Speaker Niko Peleshi immediately closed the sitting. The presence of Diella, the newly created virtual minister powered by artificial intelligence, sparked a strong reaction from opposition MPs, who banged on desks and disrupted proceedings.

Why is this important: “European Albania” was Rama’s key campaign promise in the May 11 elections, which secured him a fourth term in power. The program sets a clear goal: closing EU accession negotiations by 2027 and achieving full membership by 2030.

Why is this important: With the Socialist proposal, parliament will now have 11 standing committees instead of 8, which the majority argues will make its work more efficient, especially as Albania advances in its EU accession process.

Why is this important: The opening of this cluster is a milestone in Albania’s EU path, focusing on critical areas like infrastructure, energy transition, and environmental standards. EU Enlargement Commissioner Marta Kos praised Albania’s progress, noting that when she visited in December “almost everything was in red” — meaning unopened chapters — but now the process has moved significantly forward.

Why is this important: Authorities say the group systematically defrauded victims through a fake investment platform called XUEX, falsely presented as legitimate. The case sheds light on how transnational scam networks operate and exploit unsuspecting investors, while also threatening to escalate into extortion or violence when victims demanded their money back.

Why is this important: The decrees come after just half the time the Constitution allows the president for such appointments, signaling an effort to swiftly transition to the new government ahead of Thursday’s parliamentary confidence vote. The opposition has labeled the decree giving the Prime Minister direct responsibility for establishing and overseeing the virtual ministry as unconstitutional, promising heated debate in parliament.

Why is this important: The latest statement from the US Embassy in Pristina makes clear that Washington seeks a partner committed to stability and avoiding actions that could raise tensions in the region. This comes as relations between the two capitals have sharply cooled, culminating in the indefinite suspension of the US–Kosovo Strategic Dialogue.