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Seven individuals accused of being the German far-left militant group the Antifa Ost network went on trial on Tuesday, facing charges for violent actions against far-right activists that resulted in the moniker “Hammer Gang”.

International terrorist designation and legal charges

Recently, the US government classified Antifa Ost as a terrorist group along with multiple additional left-wing extremist and anarchist networks.

German prosecutors claim the network was responsible for targeting sites in Germany and Hungary between 2018 and 2023. Included in the allegations is the multiple attacks of a restaurant owner in Thuringia, whose venue was known as a gathering spot for far-right supporters.

Some suspects are allegedly accused of employing hammers against suspected far-right members, leaving some with serious injuries.

Court proceedings and international connections

The trial involving seven defendants is expected to run until mid-2026 in the city of Dresden, Germany. Two defendants, identified as Johann G and Paul M, also face charges for violent incidents in the Hungarian capital during February 2023, coinciding with an annual event called the “day of honour” that draws rightwing extremists from across Europe.

In a related case, a different German individual, Maja T, is currently on trial in the Hungarian judicial system for multiple charges of attempted assault against far-right activists prior to the identical event in that year.

Historical background and organizational structure

Eastern Germany has long been a breeding ground for both far-right and anti-immigration youth organizations, as well as the frequently radical anti-fascist networks that oppose them.

Authorities characterize Johann G as a senior figure within the organization, responsible for organizing violent acts and bringing in new members.

Alongside Paul M., he is alleged to have arranged training sessions where leftwing extremists practised combat techniques and simulated violent actions. At depots managed by Paul M, the group allegedly accumulated tools, pepper spray, disguises and mobile phones.

Prior legal cases and global responses

A different activist formerly involved with the organization, Lina E, became a cause celebre within certain radical left communities following her conviction in 2023 for attacks on suspected right-wing individuals.

America's terrorist listing renders organization affiliates ineligible to enter the US, freezes any assets they could possess within the American economy and makes it illegal providing material support to them.

Germany's far-right Alternative for Germany applauded the US decision and called on the German administration to follow suit. In contrast, the country's diplomatic office simply stated it had “taken note” of the American classification.

“The threat posed by the [Antifa Ost] group has recently decreased significantly. The ringleaders and particularly violent members have received convictions or are in custody.”

Government spokesperson