US Sanction of Former Albanian PM Sends Message but Raises Questions

The sanctioning of Albania's former leader for "significant corruption" is being cast as part of a drive by the new U.S. administration to fight corruption and promote democracy worldwide. But some analysts are questioning the wisdom of punishing a foreign politician for actions not directly affecting the United States. 

In announcing the sanctions on Sali Berisha and members of his family this week, U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken said Berisha "was involved in corrupt acts" during his term as prime minister of Albania, including "misappropriation of public funds and interfering with public processes."  Blinken added that Berisha had used power "for his own benefit and to enrich his political allies and his family members at the expense of the Albanian public's confidence in their government institutions and public officials."    Under the sanctions, Berisha, his wife, Liri Berisha, his son, Shkëlzen Berisha, and his daughter, Argita Berisha Malltezi, are barred from travel to the United States.