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Seven individuals allegedly belonging to the German far-left militant group the Antifa Ost network went on trial on this week, accused for attacks targeting rightwing extremists that resulted in the moniker “Hammer Gang”.

International terror listing and prosecution case

Recently, the United States classified the organization as a terrorist group along with several other European far-left and anarchist networks.

German prosecutors claim the network was behind targeting locations in the country and neighboring Hungary between 2018 and 2023. Among the incidents is the multiple attacks of a restaurant owner in central Thuringia, whose venue reportedly served as a gathering spot for far-right supporters.

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

Trial details and cross-border allegations

Court proceedings involving seven defendants is expected to run until July 2026 in the eastern city of Dresden, Germany. A pair of suspects, named as Johann G. and Paul M., are additionally accused for attacks in Budapest during early 2023, around an annual event called the “day of honour” that draws far-right participants from throughout the continent.

In a related case, 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.

Historical background and group hierarchy

The former East Germany has historically served as a hotbed for both far-right and anti-immigration youth organizations, as well as the frequently radical anti-fascist networks that oppose them.

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

Together with Paul M, he is accused of organizing training sessions where radical left activists trained in fighting methods and simulated violent actions. In storage facilities overseen by the suspect, the network reportedly stockpiled tools, pepper spray, disguises and communication devices.

Prior legal cases and international reactions

Another militant formerly involved with the organization, Lina E., became a cause celebre within some far-left activist circles 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 may have within the world’s largest economy and criminalizes offering assistance to them.

Germany's far-right AfD party applauded the American move and urged the German administration to take similar action. However, the German foreign ministry merely commented it had “taken note” of the American classification.

“The danger posed by the [Antifa Ost] group has substantially diminished lately. Key leaders and most aggressive participants have either already been convicted or are in custody.”

Government spokesperson