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A group of seven people accused of being the German far-left militant group the Antifa Ost network went on trial on this week, accused for attacks targeting rightwing extremists that resulted in the moniker “Hammer Gang”.

Global terror listing and prosecution case

Earlier this month, the US government classified Antifa Ost as a terrorist group along with multiple additional European far-left and anarchist networks.

Authorities in Germany claim the group was responsible for attacks on sites in Germany and Hungary between 2018 and 2023. Among the incidents is the multiple attacks of a business proprietor in Thuringia, whose establishment was known as a meeting point for far-right supporters.

Certain individuals are allegedly accused of employing hammers against presumed rightwing extremists, causing several with serious injuries.

Court proceedings and cross-border allegations

Court proceedings involving seven defendants is expected to run until July 2026 in the city of Dresden. Two defendants, identified as Johann G and Paul M., are additionally accused for violent incidents in the Hungarian capital during February 2023, around an yearly gathering called the “day of honour” that draws rightwing extremists from throughout the continent.

Separately, a different German individual, Maja T., is currently on trial in the Hungarian judicial system for four counts of attempted assault against neo-Nazis in the lead-up to the identical event in 2023.

Regional context and group hierarchy

The former East Germany has historically served as a hotbed for both right-wing extremist and anti-immigration youth groups, as well as the frequently radical anti-fascist networks that counter them.

Authorities characterize Johann G. as a senior figure within Antifa Ost, responsible for 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 rehearsed attacks. At depots managed by the suspect, the group allegedly accumulated tools, irritant sprays, disguises and mobile phones.

Prior legal cases and international reactions

A different activist formerly involved with the organization, Lina E., became a symbolic figure within certain radical left communities following her conviction in 2023 for targeting presumed far-right targets.

America's terrorist listing renders organization affiliates ineligible to enter the United States, blocks financial holdings they could possess within the American economy and makes it illegal offering assistance to them.

The German right-wing AfD party applauded the American move and called on the government in Berlin to take similar action. In contrast, the country's diplomatic office simply stated it had “acknowledged” of the American classification.

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

Government representative