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A group of seven people allegedly belonging to the German far-left militant group the Antifa Ost network began their trial on this week, facing charges for violent actions against far-right activists that resulted in the moniker “Hammer Gang”.

International terrorist designation and prosecution case

Earlier this month, the United States designated the organization as a terrorist organization together with multiple additional left-wing extremist and anarchist groups.

Authorities in Germany claim the network was responsible for attacks on locations in the country and Hungary from 2018 through 2023. Among the incidents is the repeated targeting of a business proprietor in Thuringia, whose venue was known as a gathering spot for far-right supporters.

Certain individuals are allegedly accused of employing hammers against suspected far-right members, leaving some severely injured.

Trial details and international connections

The trial involving six men and one woman is scheduled to continue until mid-2026 in the eastern city of Dresden, Germany. Two defendants, named as Johann G and Paul M, are additionally accused for violent incidents in Budapest during early 2023, coinciding with an yearly gathering known as the “day of honour” that draws rightwing extremists from across Europe.

Separately, another German activist, Maja T, is currently on trial in the Hungarian judicial system for four counts of attempted assault against neo-Nazis in the lead-up to the identical event in that year.

Historical background and organizational structure

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

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

Alongside Paul M, he is alleged to have arranged instruction courses where radical left activists practised combat techniques and simulated violent actions. At depots managed by Paul M, the network reportedly stockpiled tools, pepper spray, concealment items and mobile phones.

Prior legal cases and international reactions

A different activist previously active with the group, Lina E, emerged as a cause celebre within certain radical left communities following her 2023 guilty verdict for attacks on suspected right-wing individuals.

The US designation renders organization affiliates ineligible to enter the United States, blocks financial holdings they could possess within the American economy and makes it illegal offering assistance to them.

Germany's far-right Alternative for Germany welcomed the US decision and called on the German administration to take similar action. However, the country's diplomatic office simply stated it had “taken note” of the American classification.

“The threat from the organization has substantially diminished lately. The ringleaders and particularly violent members have already been convicted or remain detained.”

Government spokesperson