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

International terrorist designation and legal charges

Earlier this month, the US government designated Antifa Ost as a terrorist group together with several other left-wing extremist and anarchist networks.

German prosecutors claim the group was responsible for attacks on locations in Germany and neighboring 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 meeting point for far-right supporters.

Some suspects are allegedly accused of using hammers against suspected far-right members, causing several with serious injuries.

Court proceedings and international connections

The trial involving seven defendants is scheduled to continue until mid-2026 in the city of Dresden. A pair of suspects, identified as Johann G. and Paul M, also face charges for violent incidents in the Hungarian capital during early 2023, coinciding with an yearly gathering known as the “day of honour” that attracts rightwing extremists from across Europe.

In a related case, a different German individual, Maja T, is facing trial in Hungary for four counts of attempted assault against far-right activists in the lead-up to the identical event in 2023.

Historical background and group hierarchy

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

Authorities characterize Johann G. as a high-ranking member within the organization, tasked with planning attacks and recruiting accomplices.

Together with Paul M, he is alleged to have arranged training sessions where radical left activists trained in fighting methods and rehearsed attacks. In storage facilities overseen by Paul M, the network reportedly stockpiled tools, pepper spray, concealment items and communication devices.

Previous convictions and international reactions

A different activist previously active with the organization, 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 US, freezes any assets they may have within the American economy and criminalizes offering assistance to them.

The German right-wing Alternative for Germany applauded the US decision and urged the German administration to take similar action. However, the German foreign ministry simply stated it had “acknowledged” of the American classification.

“The danger from the [Antifa Ost] group has recently decreased significantly. The ringleaders and particularly violent members have either already been convicted or are in custody.”

Government spokesperson