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A group of seven people accused of being the German far-left militant group Antifa Ost went on trial on Tuesday, facing charges for attacks targeting far-right activists that earned them the nickname “Hammer Gang”.

Global terror listing and prosecution case

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

German prosecutors claim the network was responsible for attacks on sites in Germany and Hungary from 2018 through 2023. Among the incidents is the multiple attacks of a restaurant owner in central Thuringia, whose establishment reportedly served as a gathering spot for rightwing activists.

Certain individuals are said to have employing hammers against presumed rightwing extremists, causing several with serious injuries.

Trial details and cross-border allegations

The trial involving six men and one woman is expected to run until mid-2026 in the city of Dresden. Two defendants, identified as Johann G. and Paul M, are additionally accused for violent incidents in the Hungarian capital during February 2023, around an annual event known as the “day of honour” that draws rightwing extremists 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 far-right activists in the lead-up to the identical event in 2023.

Historical background and group hierarchy

Eastern Germany has historically served as a breeding ground 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 senior figure within the organization, tasked with 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 overseen by the suspect, the network reportedly stockpiled hammers, pepper spray, disguises and mobile phones.

Prior legal cases and global responses

Another militant formerly involved with the organization, Lina E., emerged as a cause celebre within certain radical left communities following her conviction in 2023 for attacks on 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 American economy and makes it illegal providing material support to them.

The German right-wing Alternative for Germany welcomed the American move and called on the government in Berlin to follow suit. In contrast, the German foreign ministry merely commented it had “acknowledged” of the American classification.

“The danger from the organization has recently decreased significantly. Key leaders and most aggressive participants have received convictions or are in custody.”

Government representative