State Department stays quiet as Albania reinstates deputy PM accused of corruption

Fox News - WorldCenter-RightEN 4 min read 100% complete by Beth BaileyDecember 13, 2025 at 05:20 PM

AI Summary

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The U.S. State Department has not commented on the corruption allegations surrounding Albania's Deputy Prime Minister Belinda Balluku. Balluku was initially removed from her position after being indicted by the Special Anti-Corruption and Organized Crime Structure (SPAK) on October 31 for allegedly influencing construction bids. She faces charges related to a tunnel project and a Tirana road construction project. Despite her removal, Albania's Constitutional Court reinstated her until a final decision is made. Critics, including former Albanian Ambassador to the U.S. Agim Nesho, argue that the government is shielding Balluku and interfering with the judiciary. Nesho suggests this case highlights a broader issue of corruption and lack of accountability within Prime Minister Edi Rama's government.

Key Entities & Roles

Key Player Opposition Context

State Department 40% Albania ×560% Edi Rama ×370% Belinda Balluku ×480%

Keywords

corruption 100% albania 90% edi rama 80% belinda balluku 80% state department 70% criminal indictment 60% constitutional court 60% judicial independence 50% state capture 50%