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A group of seven people allegedly belonging to the German far-left militant group the Antifa Ost network went on trial on Tuesday, accused for attacks targeting far-right activists that earned them the moniker “Hammer Gang”.

Global terrorist designation and prosecution case

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

Authorities in Germany state the group was responsible for targeting locations in the country and neighboring Hungary between 2018 and 2023. Among the incidents is the repeated targeting of a business proprietor in central Thuringia, whose establishment reportedly served as a gathering spot for rightwing activists.

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

Court proceedings and cross-border allegations

The trial involving seven defendants is expected to run 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 early 2023, coinciding with an yearly gathering called the “day of honour” that attracts rightwing extremists from across Europe.

In a related case, another German activist, Maja T, is currently on trial in the Hungarian judicial system for multiple charges of attempted violent acts against neo-Nazis prior to the same rally in that year.

Historical background and organizational structure

Eastern Germany has historically served as a breeding ground for both right-wing extremist and anti-immigrant youth groups, as well as the often militant anti-fascist networks that counter them.

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

Alongside Paul M., he is alleged to have arranged training sessions where leftwing extremists practised combat techniques and rehearsed attacks. In storage facilities managed by the suspect, the network reportedly stockpiled hammers, irritant sprays, disguises and mobile phones.

Previous convictions and international reactions

Another militant previously active with the group, Lina E., emerged as a symbolic figure within certain radical left communities following her conviction in 2023 for targeting suspected right-wing individuals.

America's terrorist listing renders organization affiliates 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.

Germany's far-right AfD party applauded the American move and urged the government in Berlin to follow suit. However, the German foreign ministry simply stated it had “taken note” of the US designation.

“The danger posed by the organization has substantially diminished lately. Key leaders and particularly violent members have either already been convicted or remain detained.”

Government representative