Why is this important: It is ironic that the same Greek media that once glorified him as a victim of politically motivated persecution by Albania is now raising concerns about his controversial past. This includes a 2023 conviction for vote-buying and longstanding allegations of involvement in murder of two unarmed soldiers during a 1994 attack on an Albanian military post, linked to the nationalist terrorist group MAVI.

Why is this important: The declaration of British support comes at a critical time, just days after the U.S. government announced a suspension of international aid for 90 days—a move expected to impact institutions like SPAK, which has benefited heavily from American funding. U.S. aid has been instrumental in motivating and empowering SPAK’s fight against high-level corruption over the past five years. However, the shift in U.S. priorities under the current administration signals that SPAK may now need to seek greater support from European partners, including the UK, to sustain its progress.

Why is this important: Grenell’s remarks suggest that concerns about Kosovo facing growing isolation from its key ally under the Trump administration, are coming true. The accusations highlight long-held concerns about Kosovo’s leadership and its positions vis-à-vis dialogue with Serbia and regional stability. The condemnation, issued just before the elections, may influence both public opinion and Kosovo’s diplomatic standing.

Why is this important: Improved relations between Albania and Greece could have significant regional and European implications, especially as Albania advances in its EU accession process. Athens, a crucial player in this process, has chosen not to block Albania’s progress following Tirana’s implementation of minority rights legislation from 2017. The legislation allows members of the Greek minority in Albania to self-identify outside traditional minority zones, a long-standing demand from Athens.

Why is this important: This marks the third contingent of migrants sent to Albania under the Italy-Albania migration agreement, negotiated between Prime Minister Edi Rama and Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni. On October 16 and November 8, 2024, two earlier groups of migrants, primarily from Egypt and Bangladesh, were sent to Albania but later repatriated following rulings by Italian courts, which deemed their countries of origin as safe. The latest transfer reflects Italy’s adjusted legal framework, which now places decisions in the hands of appellate judges under legislation that took effect on January 11, 2025. Italian authorities are hopeful this revised approach will yield better outcomes. Much of Europe is also watching if and how the pact will work.