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A group of seven people allegedly belonging to the German far-left militant group Antifa Ost began their trial on this week, accused for attacks targeting rightwing extremists that earned them the moniker “the hammer group”.

Global terrorist designation and legal charges

Earlier this month, the US government classified the organization as a terrorist group together with several other European far-left and anarchist groups.

German prosecutors claim the network was behind attacks on locations in the country and Hungary between 2018 and 2023. Included in the allegations is the multiple attacks of a restaurant owner in central Thuringia, whose establishment was known as a meeting point for far-right supporters.

Certain individuals are allegedly accused of using hammers against suspected far-right members, causing several with serious injuries.

Trial details and international connections

The trial involving six men and one woman is expected to run until mid-2026 in the city of Dresden. A pair of suspects, identified as Johann G and Paul M, also face charges for violent incidents in the Hungarian capital during early 2023, coinciding with an yearly gathering called the “day of honor” that attracts far-right participants from across Europe.

Separately, another German activist, Maja T, is facing trial in Hungary for multiple charges of attempted violent acts against neo-Nazis in the lead-up to the same rally in 2023.

Historical background and group hierarchy

The former East Germany has long been a hotbed for both far-right and anti-immigration youth groups, as well as the frequently radical anti-fascist networks that oppose them.

Prosecutors describe Johann G as a senior figure within Antifa Ost, tasked with organizing violent acts and bringing in new members.

Alongside Paul M, he is accused of organizing training sessions where leftwing extremists practised combat techniques and rehearsed attacks. In storage facilities managed by Paul M, the network reportedly stockpiled hammers, pepper spray, disguises and communication devices.

Previous convictions and international reactions

Another militant formerly involved with the organization, Lina E., emerged as a symbolic figure within certain radical left communities following her conviction in 2023 for attacks on suspected right-wing individuals.

America's terrorist listing makes group members barred from entering the US, freezes any assets they could possess within the American economy and makes it illegal providing material support to them.

Germany's far-right Alternative for Germany applauded the American move and urged the government in Berlin to follow suit. However, the German foreign ministry simply stated it had “acknowledged” of the American classification.

“The threat posed by the organization has recently decreased significantly. Key leaders and particularly violent members have either already been convicted or remain detained.”

Interior ministry spokesperson