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A group of seven people accused of being the left-wing extremist organization Antifa Ost began their trial on this week, accused for attacks targeting rightwing extremists that resulted in the nickname “Hammer Gang”.

Global terrorist designation and prosecution case

Earlier this month, the United States classified Antifa Ost as a terrorist group along with several other left-wing extremist and anarchist networks.

German prosecutors claim the group was behind attacks on sites in the country and neighboring Hungary from 2018 through 2023. Among the incidents is the repeated targeting of a business proprietor in central Thuringia, whose venue reportedly served as a meeting point for rightwing activists.

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

Trial details and international connections

The trial involving six men and one woman is scheduled to continue until July 2026 in the eastern city of Dresden. Two defendants, identified as Johann G. and Paul M, are additionally accused for violent incidents in the Hungarian capital during early 2023, around an yearly gathering known as the “day of honour” that draws rightwing extremists from throughout the continent.

In a related case, another German activist, Maja T., is currently on trial in Hungary for four counts of attempted violent acts against far-right activists in the lead-up to the same rally in that year.

Historical background and group hierarchy

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

Prosecutors describe Johann G as a high-ranking member within the organization, responsible for organizing violent acts and recruiting accomplices.

Together with Paul M, he is accused of organizing instruction courses where leftwing extremists practised combat techniques and rehearsed attacks. In storage facilities overseen by Paul M, the group allegedly accumulated tools, pepper spray, disguises and communication devices.

Prior legal cases and international reactions

A different activist formerly involved with the group, Lina E, emerged as a symbolic figure within certain radical left communities following her 2023 guilty verdict for attacks on suspected right-wing individuals.

America's terrorist listing makes group members barred from entering the United States, blocks financial holdings they could possess within the world’s largest economy and makes it illegal providing material support to them.

The German right-wing Alternative for Germany welcomed the US decision and called on the German administration to follow suit. In contrast, the German foreign ministry merely commented it had “taken note” of the US designation.

“The danger posed by the organization has recently decreased significantly. The ringleaders and particularly violent members have already been convicted or are in custody.”

Interior ministry representative