Seven individuals accused of being the German far-left militant group the Antifa Ost network went on trial on Tuesday, accused for attacks targeting rightwing extremists 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 several other European far-left and anarchist networks.
German prosecutors claim the group was behind targeting locations in Germany and Hungary from 2018 through 2023. Included in the allegations is the multiple attacks of a restaurant owner in central Thuringia, whose establishment reportedly served as a gathering spot for rightwing activists.
Certain individuals are said to have 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 scheduled to continue until July 2026 in the eastern city of Dresden, Germany. Two defendants, identified as Johann G. and Paul M, are additionally accused for violent incidents in Budapest during early 2023, coinciding with an annual event known as the “day of honour” that attracts rightwing extremists from throughout the continent.
Separately, another German activist, Maja T., is facing trial in the Hungarian judicial system for multiple charges of attempted assault against neo-Nazis in the lead-up to the same rally in 2023.
Historical background and organizational structure
The former East Germany has historically served as a hotbed for both far-right and anti-immigration youth organizations, as well as the frequently radical anti-fascist networks that oppose them.
Authorities characterize Johann G as a high-ranking member within Antifa Ost, tasked with planning attacks and bringing in new members.
Alongside Paul M, he is accused of organizing training sessions where radical left activists practised combat techniques and simulated violent actions. At depots overseen by the suspect, the network reportedly stockpiled tools, pepper spray, concealment items and mobile phones.
Previous convictions and international reactions
Another militant formerly involved with the group, Lina E., became a symbolic figure within certain radical left communities following her 2023 guilty verdict for attacks on suspected right-wing individuals.
The US designation makes group members barred from entering the US, blocks financial holdings they may have within the world’s largest economy and makes it illegal providing material support to them.
Germany's far-right Alternative for Germany welcomed 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 “taken note” of the American classification.
“The danger posed by the [Antifa Ost] group has substantially diminished lately. Key leaders and particularly violent members have already been convicted or remain detained.”
Government representative
