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Seven individuals accused of being the left-wing extremist organization the Antifa Ost network began their trial on Tuesday, accused for attacks targeting far-right activists that resulted in the nickname “Hammer Gang”.

Global terrorist designation and prosecution case

Recently, the United States designated Antifa Ost as a terrorist group together with several other left-wing extremist and anarchist groups.

Authorities in Germany claim the group was responsible for attacks on sites in Germany and neighboring Hungary from 2018 through 2023. Among the incidents is the multiple attacks of a restaurant owner in Thuringia, whose venue was known as a gathering spot for far-right supporters.

Certain individuals are allegedly accused of employing hammers against presumed rightwing extremists, causing several with serious injuries.

Trial details and cross-border allegations

Court proceedings involving six men and one woman is expected to run until mid-2026 in the eastern city of Dresden. A pair of suspects, named as Johann G. and Paul M., also face charges for attacks in the Hungarian capital during February 2023, around an yearly gathering called the “day of honour” that draws far-right participants from across Europe.

In a related case, a different German individual, Maja T, is facing trial in Hungary for four counts of attempted violent acts against neo-Nazis in the lead-up to the identical event in 2023.

Historical background and group hierarchy

The former East Germany has long been a hotbed for both right-wing extremist and anti-immigrant youth organizations, as well as the frequently radical antifascist groups that counter them.

Prosecutors describe Johann G as a high-ranking member within the organization, responsible for organizing violent acts and bringing in new members.

Alongside Paul M, he is accused of organizing training sessions where leftwing extremists practised combat techniques and rehearsed attacks. At depots managed by Paul M, the group allegedly accumulated hammers, pepper spray, concealment items and mobile phones.

Prior legal cases and international reactions

A different activist formerly involved with the organization, Lina E, became a symbolic figure within some far-left activist circles following her conviction in 2023 for attacks on presumed far-right targets.

The US designation makes group members barred from entering the US, blocks financial holdings they may have within the world’s largest economy and makes it illegal providing material support to them.

Germany's far-right Alternative for Germany applauded the US decision and urged the government in Berlin to follow suit. In contrast, the country's diplomatic office simply stated it had “acknowledged” of the American classification.

“The danger from the organization has recently decreased significantly. Key leaders and particularly violent members have already been convicted or remain detained.”

Government spokesperson