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Seven individuals accused of being the German far-left militant group the Antifa Ost network began their trial on this week, facing charges for attacks targeting far-right activists that resulted in the moniker “Hammer Gang”.

Global terrorist designation and legal charges

Recently, the US government classified Antifa Ost as a terrorist organization together with several other European far-left and anarchist groups.

Authorities in Germany claim the group was behind attacks on locations in Germany and Hungary between 2018 and 2023. Included in the allegations is the multiple attacks of a business proprietor in central Thuringia, whose venue was known as a gathering spot for rightwing activists.

Certain individuals are allegedly accused of employing hammers against presumed rightwing extremists, leaving some severely injured.

Trial details and cross-border allegations

Court proceedings involving seven defendants is scheduled to continue until mid-2026 in the eastern city of Dresden. Two defendants, identified as Johann G and Paul M, are additionally accused for attacks in the Hungarian capital during February 2023, coinciding with an yearly gathering called the “day of honour” that attracts rightwing extremists from throughout the continent.

Separately, a different German individual, Maja T, is facing trial in Hungary for multiple charges of attempted violent acts against neo-Nazis prior to the same rally in 2023.

Historical background and group hierarchy

Eastern Germany has historically served as a breeding ground for both right-wing extremist and anti-immigration youth organizations, as well as the frequently radical anti-fascist networks that oppose them.

Authorities characterize Johann G as a high-ranking member within the organization, tasked with organizing violent acts and recruiting accomplices.

Alongside Paul M, he is accused of organizing training sessions where leftwing extremists trained in fighting methods and rehearsed attacks. In storage facilities overseen by the suspect, the group allegedly accumulated tools, pepper spray, concealment items and communication devices.

Prior legal cases and global responses

Another militant previously active with the organization, Lina E., became a symbolic figure within some far-left activist circles following her 2023 guilty verdict for attacks on suspected right-wing individuals.

America's terrorist listing renders organization affiliates ineligible to enter the United States, blocks financial holdings they may have within the American economy and criminalizes offering assistance to them.

Germany's far-right AfD party applauded the American move and urged the German administration to follow suit. In contrast, the country's diplomatic office simply stated it had “acknowledged” of the US designation.

“The threat from the [Antifa Ost] group has recently decreased significantly. The ringleaders and most aggressive participants have either already been convicted or are in custody.”

Interior ministry spokesperson