Albania opposition leader berisha says US lifts entry ban on him

Friday 12 June 2026 - 10:34

Former Albanian president and current opposition leader Sali Berisha has announced that the United States has lifted a travel ban imposed on him in 2021.

The ban had previously prevented Berisha and members of his immediate family from entering the United States. It was introduced by the U.S. State Department, which accused him of involvement in corruption-related activities, including alleged misuse of public funds and the enrichment of relatives through political influence.

Berisha, a key political figure in Albania since the early 1990s after the fall of communism, has long been a controversial personality in Balkan politics, having served as both president and prime minister.

The decision to lift the entry ban marks a significant development in his political and diplomatic standing, although no detailed explanation was immediately provided regarding the change in the U.S. position.

The announcement comes at a time of ongoing political debate in Albania, where Berisha continues to lead the main opposition party and remains an influential figure in national politics.

Observers note that the move could have implications for U.S.–Albania relations as well as the country’s internal political dynamics.