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

Global terrorist designation and legal charges

Recently, the US government classified Antifa Ost as a terrorist group together with multiple additional European far-left and anarchist groups.

Authorities in Germany claim the group was responsible for attacks on sites in Germany and Hungary from 2018 through 2023. Included in the allegations is the repeated targeting of a business proprietor in Thuringia, whose venue was known as a meeting point for far-right supporters.

Some suspects are allegedly accused of employing hammers against suspected far-right members, 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 city of Dresden. A pair of suspects, identified as Johann G. and Paul M., are additionally accused for attacks in the Hungarian capital during early 2023, around an yearly gathering called the “day of honour” that draws far-right participants from throughout the continent.

Separately, a different German individual, Maja T, is facing trial in the Hungarian judicial system for multiple charges of attempted violent acts against neo-Nazis in the lead-up to the same rally in 2023.

Regional context and organizational structure

Eastern Germany has historically served as a breeding ground for both right-wing extremist and anti-immigration 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 accused of organizing training sessions where leftwing extremists trained in fighting methods and simulated violent actions. In storage facilities managed by the suspect, the group reportedly stockpiled tools, pepper spray, disguises and mobile phones.

Previous convictions and global responses

A different activist previously active with the group, Lina E., emerged as a symbolic figure within some far-left activist circles following her conviction in 2023 for attacks on suspected right-wing individuals.

America's terrorist listing renders organization affiliates barred from entering the US, blocks financial holdings they could possess 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 German administration to follow suit. However, the country's diplomatic office simply stated it had “acknowledged” of the American classification.

“The danger from the [Antifa Ost] group has substantially diminished lately. The ringleaders and most aggressive participants have received convictions or remain detained.”

Interior ministry spokesperson