Seven individuals accused of being the German far-left militant group Antifa Ost began their trial on Tuesday, accused for attacks targeting far-right activists that earned them the moniker “Hammer Gang”.
International terror listing and prosecution case
Earlier this month, the US government designated Antifa Ost as a terrorist group along with multiple additional European far-left and anarchist networks.
Authorities in Germany claim the network was responsible for attacks on sites in the country and neighboring Hungary from 2018 through 2023. Included in the allegations is the multiple attacks of a restaurant owner in Thuringia, whose venue was known as a gathering spot for far-right supporters.
Certain individuals are allegedly accused of employing hammers against suspected far-right members, leaving some with serious injuries.
Trial details and international connections
Court proceedings involving seven defendants is expected to run 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 Budapest during February 2023, around an annual event known as the “day of honor” that draws rightwing extremists from throughout the continent.
Separately, a different German individual, Maja T., is facing trial in Hungary for multiple charges of attempted assault against far-right activists in the lead-up to the same rally in 2023.
Historical background and group hierarchy
Eastern Germany has long been a breeding ground for both right-wing extremist and anti-immigrant youth groups, as well as the often militant antifascist groups that oppose them.
Authorities characterize Johann G as a senior figure within the organization, responsible for planning attacks and recruiting accomplices.
Alongside Paul M., he is alleged to have arranged instruction courses where leftwing extremists practised combat techniques and rehearsed attacks. At depots overseen by Paul M, the group allegedly accumulated tools, pepper spray, disguises and mobile phones.
Previous convictions and global responses
Another militant formerly involved with the group, Lina E, emerged as a cause celebre within certain radical left communities following her conviction in 2023 for targeting presumed far-right targets.
The US designation makes group members barred from entering the United States, freezes any assets they may have within the world’s largest economy and makes it illegal providing material support to them.
The German right-wing AfD party welcomed the US decision and urged the government in Berlin to follow suit. In contrast, the German foreign ministry simply stated it had “taken note” of the US designation.
“The danger from the [Antifa Ost] group has substantially diminished lately. Key leaders and most aggressive participants have already been convicted or remain detained.”
Government spokesperson
