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Seven individuals allegedly belonging to the German far-left militant group Antifa Ost began their trial on Tuesday, facing charges for attacks targeting far-right activists that resulted in the nickname “Hammer Gang”.

International terrorist designation and prosecution case

Recently, the US government designated the organization as a terrorist organization along with multiple additional European far-left and anarchist groups.

Authorities in Germany claim the group was behind attacks on sites in Germany and Hungary between 2018 and 2023. Among the incidents is the repeated targeting of a restaurant owner in Thuringia, whose venue was known as a meeting point for far-right supporters.

Some suspects are said to have using hammers against suspected far-right members, causing several with serious injuries.

Trial details and international connections

Court proceedings involving six men and one woman is scheduled to continue until mid-2026 in the eastern city of Dresden. A pair of suspects, identified as Johann G. and Paul M., also face charges for attacks in the Hungarian capital during February 2023, coinciding with an yearly gathering known as the “day of honour” that attracts far-right participants from across Europe.

Separately, a different German individual, Maja T, is currently on trial in the Hungarian judicial system for four counts of attempted violent acts against far-right activists in the lead-up to the identical event in that year.

Historical background and organizational structure

The former East Germany has historically served as a breeding ground for both far-right and anti-immigrant youth groups, as well as the often militant antifascist groups that oppose them.

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

Alongside Paul M, he is accused of organizing instruction courses where leftwing extremists practised combat techniques and rehearsed attacks. At depots managed by the suspect, the network allegedly accumulated tools, irritant sprays, disguises and communication devices.

Previous convictions 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 conviction in 2023 for attacks on presumed far-right targets.

The US designation makes group members barred from entering the United States, blocks financial holdings they may have within the American economy and criminalizes providing material support to them.

The German right-wing AfD party applauded 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 are in custody.”

Government representative