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A group of seven people allegedly belonging to the German far-left militant group Antifa Ost went on trial on Tuesday, accused for violent actions against far-right activists that earned them the moniker “Hammer Gang”.

Global terrorist designation and prosecution case

Earlier this month, the United States classified the organization as a terrorist organization along with multiple additional European far-left and anarchist groups.

Authorities in Germany claim the group was behind attacks on locations in Germany and Hungary from 2018 through 2023. Included in the allegations is the repeated targeting of a business proprietor in Thuringia, whose establishment reportedly served as a gathering spot for far-right supporters.

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

Trial details and cross-border allegations

The trial involving seven defendants is scheduled to continue until mid-2026 in the eastern city of Dresden. Two defendants, named as Johann G. and Paul M, are additionally accused for violent incidents in Budapest during early 2023, coinciding with an yearly gathering known as the “day of honour” that attracts far-right participants from throughout the continent.

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

Regional context and organizational structure

The former East Germany has historically served as a breeding ground for both right-wing extremist and anti-immigrant youth organizations, as well as the frequently radical antifascist groups that oppose them.

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

Alongside Paul M, he is alleged to have arranged training sessions where leftwing extremists trained in fighting methods and rehearsed attacks. In storage facilities overseen by the suspect, the network reportedly stockpiled hammers, pepper spray, concealment items and mobile phones.

Prior legal cases and international reactions

Another militant formerly involved with the organization, Lina E., emerged as a symbolic figure within some far-left activist circles following her conviction in 2023 for attacks on presumed far-right targets.

America's terrorist listing makes group members barred from entering the US, 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 “taken note” of the American classification.

“The danger from the organization has recently decreased significantly. Key leaders and particularly violent members have received convictions or remain detained.”

Government representative