Why this is important: The meeting is notable not only for its timing—amid an election campaign and growing scrutiny over Berisha’s international lobbying efforts—but also because of Berisha’s past attacks on Hahn. During Hahn’s tenure as EU commissioner, Berisha frequently accused him of favoring Prime Minister Edi Rama and undermining democracy in Albania. The reversal suggests Berisha is now seeking to rebuild bridges in Brussels as part of a broader strategy to gain legitimacy abroad.

Why this is important: Berisha’s outreach to Athens, including his vocal support for the controversial ethnic Greek politician Fredi Beleri and his public alignment with Greek conservative leadership, seems to be part of an apparent strategy to escape international isolation. But the move is not without risk. While it may earn him points abroad, it could alienate Albanian voters who remain wary of Greek nationalist narratives, particularly about the sensitive Himara region.

Why this is important: Berisha’s vocal support for Beleri — a polarizing figure in Albania due to his criminal conviction and alleged ties to a 1994 anti-Albanian paramilitary attack — has sparked significant controversy. His defense of Beleri is widely seen as an appeal to political elements in Greece, aimed at breaking his international isolation. For many Albanians, however, this move appears deeply divisive and, is highly unlikely to improve his electoral fortunes.

Why is this important: While DP is spending $6 million on a lobbying deal with a firm linked to Trump allies, it’s also amplifying ceremonial social media posts as supposed evidence of U.S. support. The strategy appears ineffective in swaying an election the ruling Socialists are widely expected to win in a landslide — and is instead drawing ridicule as desperate and out of touch.

Why is this important: The incident highlights the Democratic Party’s increasingly desperate attempts to fabricate narratives of American support for Sali Berisha and U.S. hostility to Edi Rama. It also reveals the risks DP is willing to take — including spreading false claims and involving high-profile U.S. figures — to bolster its failing electoral strategy. The public denial by Trump Jr. has severely undercut DP’s credibility just days before the May 11 elections.