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A group of seven people accused of being the German far-left militant group the Antifa Ost network began their trial on Tuesday, facing charges for attacks targeting far-right activists that resulted in the moniker “Hammer Gang”.

Global terrorist designation and prosecution case

Recently, the United States designated Antifa Ost as a terrorist group along with multiple additional European far-left and anarchist networks.

Authorities in Germany claim the network was behind attacks on sites in the country and neighboring Hungary between 2018 and 2023. Among the incidents is the repeated targeting of a restaurant owner in Thuringia, whose establishment was known as a gathering spot 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

The trial involving seven defendants is scheduled to continue until July 2026 in the eastern city of Dresden, Germany. Two defendants, named as Johann G. and Paul M, are additionally accused for attacks in Budapest during early 2023, coinciding with an yearly gathering called the “day of honour” that draws far-right participants from throughout the continent.

In a related case, another German activist, Maja T, is currently on trial in the Hungarian judicial system for multiple charges of attempted assault against neo-Nazis in the lead-up to the identical event in that year.

Regional context and group hierarchy

Eastern Germany has long been a hotbed for both far-right and anti-immigrant youth organizations, as well as the frequently radical anti-fascist networks that counter them.

Prosecutors describe Johann G. as a senior figure within Antifa Ost, tasked with planning attacks and bringing in new members.

Together with Paul M, he is alleged to have arranged training sessions where leftwing extremists practised combat techniques and simulated violent actions. At depots overseen by Paul M, the network reportedly stockpiled hammers, pepper spray, disguises and communication devices.

Previous convictions and global responses

A different activist previously active with the group, Lina E., became a symbolic figure 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, freezes any assets they may have within the American economy and criminalizes offering assistance to them.

The German right-wing Alternative for Germany welcomed the US decision and urged the government in Berlin to take similar action. In contrast, the country's diplomatic office merely commented it had “taken note” of the US designation.

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

Interior ministry spokesperson