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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 nickname “Hammer Gang”.

International terrorist designation and legal charges

Earlier this month, the US government designated the organization as a terrorist organization together with several other European far-left and anarchist networks.

Authorities in Germany state the network was responsible for attacks on sites in the country and neighboring Hungary from 2018 through 2023. Included in the allegations is the multiple attacks of a restaurant owner in central Thuringia, whose venue reportedly served as a gathering spot for far-right supporters.

Certain individuals are said to have using hammers against suspected far-right members, causing several with serious injuries.

Trial details and cross-border allegations

The trial involving seven defendants is expected to run until July 2026 in the city of Dresden. A pair of suspects, identified as Johann G. and Paul M., also face charges for violent incidents in Budapest during early 2023, around an annual event known as the “day of honour” that attracts far-right participants from throughout the continent.

Separately, another German activist, Maja T., is currently on trial in Hungary for multiple charges of attempted violent acts against far-right activists in the lead-up to the identical event in that year.

Regional context and group hierarchy

Eastern Germany has long been a breeding ground for both right-wing extremist and anti-immigrant youth organizations, as well as the often militant anti-fascist networks that oppose them.

Prosecutors describe Johann G as a high-ranking member within Antifa Ost, tasked with planning attacks and bringing in new members.

Together with Paul M., he is alleged to have arranged instruction courses where leftwing extremists trained in fighting methods and simulated violent actions. In storage facilities overseen by Paul M, the group allegedly accumulated tools, irritant sprays, concealment items and communication devices.

Previous convictions and international reactions

A different activist formerly involved with the organization, Lina E., emerged as a symbolic figure within some far-left activist circles following her conviction in 2023 for targeting suspected right-wing individuals.

America's terrorist listing makes group members barred from entering the US, freezes any assets they may have within the world’s largest economy and makes it illegal offering assistance to them.

The German right-wing AfD party welcomed the American move and urged the government in Berlin to take similar action. In contrast, the country's diplomatic office simply stated it had “taken note” of the US designation.

“The threat from the organization has recently decreased significantly. Key leaders and most aggressive participants have either received convictions or remain detained.”

Interior ministry spokesperson