Unexpected Allies in a Legal Storm

The United States and Albania have found themselves oddly linked by the same man: Jack Smith. In 2020, Smith, then chief prosecutor at a special court in The Hague, announced charges against Hashim Thaci, a former Kosovar leader and close ally of U. S. President Donald Trump during his first term. Thaci, who fought in the 1998–1999 Kosovo War, was accused of war crimes stemming from that conflict. The indictment caused a diplomatic stir when it leaked just before Thaci was due to meet Trump in Washington, undermining talks aimed at easing tensions between Kosovo and Serbia. Fast forward to 2024. Trump, now out of office, faces his own legal challenges—arrests and investigations tied to alleged mishandling of documents and the January 6 events. Meanwhile, Smith is being scrutinized by both the U. S. Justice Department and Congress for his earlier actions against Thaci and, now, Trump. The same prosecutor who once threatened a former president is now under investigation himself.Albanian Prime Minister Edi Rama, attending a White House meeting a week ago, used the occasion to press Trump for help with Thaci’s case. Rama described The Hague proceedings as a “masquerade of international justice” and urged the former U. S. leader to intervene. Though no concrete outcome is guaranteed, Rama’s gesture—slapping Trump’s arm and shoulder in a rare show of camaraderie—illustrates the unusual bond formed by shared opposition to Smith. Thaci’s trial concluded last week, and a verdict is pending. If found guilty, he could face up to 45 years behind bars. The situation underscores how legal battles can create unexpected alliances across borders, with political leaders seeking support from former adversaries in the quest for justice—or power.