Ivanka and Jared Are Turning a Soviet Weapons Dump Into a Billion-Dollar Resort
Sazan Island is a largely untouched piece of land in the Mediterranean that’s about to get a makeover like no other. Ivanka Trump and Jared Kushner are using a bold new project to transform the old Soviet weapons base into a high-end resort. This $1.4 billion venture is expected to become a playground for the wealthy and elite. It is expected to offer luxury villas, private beaches, and an exclusive atmosphere. Here’s everything you need to know about this resort.
A Forgotten Military Base with Big Potential
Image via Unsplash/Nadiia Ganzhyi
For decades, Sazan Island sat in the shadows under layers of Cold War secrets. It was initially a military outpost that stored Soviet-era bunkers, tunnels, and shelters designed to withstand nuclear attacks. Once under the control of Albania’s communist regime, the island hosted Soviet military operations, including storing chemical weapons.
The crumbling remains of the base, including over 3,600 bunkers, have been empty since Albania opened the island to the public in 2017. But now, its dark past is set to collide with the glitz and glamour of luxury tourism, as Ivanka and Jared have decided it’s the perfect spot for a five-star resort.
The couple’s ambitious plans have garnered significant attention. Ivanka has already dabbled in real estate development, and Jared’s family controls a vast portfolio of properties. They’re creating a destination that promises to reshape the tourism scene in Albania.
The Albanian government, recognizing the potential economic boost, gave preliminary approval for the project in 2024.
A Dubious Past, a Bright Future?
Now, as construction plans take shape, there’s plenty of buzz about what this project will mean for both the island and the surrounding region. On one hand, the development promises to turn Sazan into a hotspot for international tourism. On the other hand, there are some concerns about what it might mean for the island’s fragile ecosystem.
Sazan sits within the Karaburun-Sazan National Marine Park, which is home to rare wildlife. The island’s rich marine life and bird species make it a prime location for eco-tourism. Critics worry that transforming the island into a luxury resort might threaten the natural balance, particularly as the construction process will involve significant land clearance. Residents, some of whom have lived near the island for generations, have voiced concerns about the environmental impact and the potential for overcrowding.
Environmental groups are monitoring it closely, though, calling for careful consideration of the island’s natural resources. Ivanka and Jared, however, have publicly assured that their plans will be eco-conscious. They’re working with top architects and experts to ensure that the resort respects the island’s ecological balance.
The Logistics
Sazan is located just off the Albanian coast. It’s a short ferry ride from the popular tourist destination of Vlore. Its strategic position was once crucial during the Cold War. From the island, you can enjoy a sweeping view of the Ionian Sea, which is part of why it’s a prime spot for resort-goers who want privacy and exclusivity.
The island itself spans 1,400 acres, with its dense forests, rugged cliffs, and pristine beaches. Ivanka and Jared’s resort will feature high-end accommodations like private villas, luxury hotels, and a marina. The pair is working with well-known luxury hospitality brands to ensure that their resort will be a name to reckon with in the luxury travel industry.
Local Impact and Economic Potential
On the economic front, the project has the potential to be a game-changer for Albania. As one of the poorest countries in Europe, Albania has long relied on tourism to drive its economy. However, the country has been underdeveloped in terms of luxury tourism, with few five-star resorts compared to neighboring Greece or Croatia.
The arrival of Ivanka and Jared’s resort could put Albania on the map for high-end travelers. The resort is expected to create thousands of employment opportunities, both during construction and for long-term staffing once it opens. Some Albanian officials have already spoken out in favor of the project since the area could use the economic boost.
A Touch of Controversy
It would be unwise not to expect some controversy with such a bold project. Given their close ties to U.S. President Donald Trump, Ivanka and Jared’s involvement in the resort has raised eyebrows. While both Ivanka and Jared have stepped away from direct participation in the Trump administration since his second term, their family’s political connections are hard to ignore.
Some critics have raised questions about the transparency of the approval process, suspecting that political influence may have played a role in the deal. Everyone’s thinking it too. Albanian opposition politicians have voiced similar concerns, with one member of parliament calling it a “private deal” in the interest of the country’s prime minister.
While there’s no concrete evidence of wrongdoing, these accusations have added a layer of complexity to the project’s public perception. Ivanka and Jared, for their part, have denied any political influence.
The Island’s Future
The future of Sazan Island is a bit of a mixed bag. Even so, we can’t deny the appeal of transforming a forgotten military base into a glittering tourist destination. The idea of visiting a place with such a fascinating history that was once home to Cold War military secrets, and is now a symbol of luxury and indulgence, is sure to draw attention.