US Embassy advises its citizens to avoid protests on the boulevard

The United States Embassy announced this Thursday that protests are continuing every evening in Tirana in front of the Prime Minister’s Office building, on “Dëshmorët e Kombit” Boulevard, on the stretch between Skanderbeg Square and Mother Teresa Square.

The notice says these gatherings are expected to continue in the coming days and that there is a possibility they could spread to other cities across the country. The Embassy notes that protests and large gatherings of this kind, even when they begin peacefully, can develop rapidly.

According to the warning, there may be an increased police presence in the areas where the protests are being held, road closures, traffic diversions and difficulties getting around, especially before they begin and while they are taking place. It also stresses that the protests could extend to nearby areas as well, including other state institutions.

The Embassy urges American citizens, as well as the public at large, to stay away from the demonstrations, remain aware of their surroundings, avoid distractions such as using a phone or headphones in public spaces, and follow local media for updated information.

Another piece of advice is for citizens to always have an emergency or exit plan and to keep a low profile in areas where crowds may form.