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Seven individuals accused of being the German far-left militant group the Antifa Ost network went on trial on this week, accused for violent actions against far-right activists that earned them the moniker “the hammer group”.

Global terror listing and prosecution case

Recently, the United States designated Antifa Ost as a terrorist organization together with multiple additional European far-left and anarchist groups.

Authorities in Germany claim the network was responsible for attacks on locations in Germany and Hungary from 2018 through 2023. Included in the allegations is the multiple attacks of a business proprietor in central Thuringia, whose venue was known as a meeting point for far-right supporters.

Some suspects are said to have employing hammers against presumed rightwing extremists, leaving some with serious injuries.

Trial details and cross-border allegations

The trial involving seven defendants 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, around an yearly gathering called the “day of honour” that draws far-right participants from throughout the continent.

Separately, another German activist, Maja T., is facing trial in the Hungarian judicial system for multiple charges of attempted violent acts against far-right activists prior to the identical event in 2023.

Historical background and organizational structure

Eastern Germany has long been a breeding ground for both far-right and anti-immigration 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, responsible for planning attacks and recruiting accomplices.

Together with 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 tools, irritant sprays, disguises and communication devices.

Previous convictions and global responses

Another militant formerly involved with the group, Lina E, emerged as a symbolic figure within certain radical left communities following her 2023 guilty verdict for attacks on presumed far-right targets.

America's terrorist listing makes group members barred from entering the US, freezes any assets they may have within the world’s largest economy and makes it illegal offering assistance to them.

The German right-wing AfD party welcomed the American move and urged the German administration to follow suit. However, the German foreign ministry merely commented it had “acknowledged” of the US designation.

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

Interior ministry spokesperson