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A group of seven people allegedly belonging to the left-wing extremist organization the Antifa Ost network began their trial on this week, accused for attacks targeting far-right activists that resulted in the nickname “Hammer Gang”.

International terror listing and legal charges

Recently, the US government classified the organization as a terrorist organization together with several other left-wing extremist and anarchist networks.

Authorities in Germany claim the network was behind targeting sites in Germany and neighboring Hungary between 2018 and 2023. Included in the allegations is the multiple attacks of a restaurant owner in Thuringia, whose venue was known as a meeting point for far-right supporters.

Some suspects are allegedly accused of using hammers against suspected far-right members, causing several severely injured.

Trial details and cross-border allegations

Court proceedings involving seven defendants is scheduled to continue until mid-2026 in the city of Dresden, Germany. A pair of suspects, named as Johann G. and Paul M, are additionally accused for attacks in Budapest during February 2023, around an annual event called the “day of honor” that draws far-right participants from across Europe.

Separately, another German activist, Maja T., is facing trial in Hungary for four counts of attempted assault against far-right activists prior to the same rally in that year.

Regional context and group hierarchy

Eastern Germany has historically served as a breeding ground for both far-right and anti-immigrant youth groups, as well as the frequently radical anti-fascist networks that oppose them.

Authorities characterize Johann G as a senior figure within the organization, tasked with organizing violent acts and bringing in new members.

Alongside Paul M, he is accused of organizing instruction courses where radical left activists practised combat techniques and simulated violent actions. In storage facilities overseen by the suspect, the network allegedly accumulated tools, pepper spray, disguises and communication devices.

Prior legal cases and international reactions

Another militant previously active with the organization, Lina E, emerged as a cause celebre within certain radical left communities following her 2023 guilty verdict for attacks on suspected right-wing individuals.

America's terrorist listing makes group members ineligible to enter the United States, blocks financial holdings they may have within the American economy and criminalizes providing material support to them.

Germany's far-right AfD party welcomed the US decision and called on 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 recently decreased significantly. The ringleaders and particularly violent members have already been convicted or remain detained.”

Interior ministry representative