Seven individuals allegedly belonging to the left-wing extremist organization the Antifa Ost network went on trial on Tuesday, accused for attacks targeting far-right activists that resulted in the moniker “Hammer Gang”.
International terrorist designation and prosecution case
Earlier this month, the US government classified the organization as a terrorist group together with several other left-wing extremist and anarchist networks.
German prosecutors state the group was behind targeting sites in the country and neighboring Hungary between 2018 and 2023. Included in the allegations is the multiple attacks of a restaurant owner in central Thuringia, whose venue was known as a meeting point for far-right supporters.
Certain individuals are allegedly accused of using hammers against suspected far-right members, causing several with serious injuries.
Court proceedings and cross-border allegations
Court proceedings involving six men and one woman is expected to run until July 2026 in the city of Dresden. Two defendants, named 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 honour” that attracts rightwing extremists from throughout the continent.
In a related case, another German activist, Maja T., is currently on trial in the Hungarian judicial system for four counts of attempted violent acts against far-right activists prior to the same rally in 2023.
Regional context and group hierarchy
The former East Germany has long been a hotbed for both far-right and anti-immigration youth groups, as well as the frequently radical antifascist groups that counter them.
Prosecutors describe Johann G as a senior figure within the organization, responsible for planning attacks and bringing in new members.
Together with Paul M., he is alleged to have arranged instruction courses where radical left activists practised combat techniques and simulated violent actions. In storage facilities managed by the suspect, the group allegedly accumulated tools, pepper spray, concealment items and communication devices.
Previous convictions and global responses
Another militant formerly involved with the organization, Lina E., emerged as 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 ineligible to enter the US, blocks financial holdings they could possess within the world’s largest economy and makes it illegal offering assistance to them.
Germany's far-right AfD party applauded the US decision and called on the government in Berlin to take similar action. In contrast, the country's diplomatic office simply stated it had “taken note” of the American classification.
“The threat from the organization has recently decreased significantly. The ringleaders and most aggressive participants have either already been convicted or are in custody.”
Government spokesperson
