After escaping the Taliban, hundreds of Afghans languish in Albania in a prolonged US visa process

By LLAZAR SEMINI
Associated Press

SHENGJIN, Albania (AP) — Hundreds of Afghans are languishing in Albania, waiting for the U.S. visas they were promised, almost two years after fleeing the Taliban takeover of their country. For many, it’s an emotional roller coaster. Some try to find work and live with a semblance of normalcy but the concern and fear for what is happening to families back home permeates their days — even in sunny and welcoming Albania. They are hopeful, despite the prolonged bureaucracy, and look forward to a new start in America. Still, the fate of those who stayed behind under the Taliban weighs heavily on their minds.