Seven individuals accused of being the German far-left militant group Antifa Ost went on trial on Tuesday, accused for attacks targeting rightwing extremists that earned them the nickname “Hammer Gang”.
Global terrorist designation and prosecution case
Earlier this month, the US government designated Antifa Ost as a terrorist group together with multiple additional European far-left and anarchist groups.
German prosecutors claim the group was behind attacks on locations in the country and neighboring Hungary between 2018 and 2023. Among the incidents is the multiple attacks of a restaurant owner in central Thuringia, whose venue reportedly served as a gathering spot for rightwing activists.
Some suspects are allegedly accused of using hammers against suspected far-right members, leaving some severely injured.
Trial details and international connections
The trial involving seven defendants is scheduled to continue until mid-2026 in the eastern city of Dresden, Germany. Two defendants, identified as Johann G and Paul M, are additionally accused for attacks in Budapest during February 2023, around an annual event known as the “day of honor” 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 neo-Nazis prior to the identical event in that year.
Historical background and group hierarchy
Eastern Germany has historically served as a hotbed for both far-right and anti-immigration youth groups, as well as the frequently radical anti-fascist networks that counter them.
Prosecutors describe Johann G. as a high-ranking member within Antifa Ost, responsible for planning attacks and bringing in new members.
Together with Paul M, he is accused of organizing training sessions where leftwing extremists trained in fighting methods and rehearsed attacks. In storage facilities managed by Paul M, the group reportedly stockpiled tools, irritant sprays, disguises and mobile phones.
Previous convictions and international reactions
Another militant previously active with the group, Lina E., became a symbolic figure within some far-left activist circles following her 2023 guilty verdict for targeting suspected right-wing individuals.
America's terrorist listing renders organization affiliates barred from entering the US, freezes any assets they could possess within the American economy and makes it illegal providing material support to them.
The German right-wing AfD party applauded the American move and urged the government in Berlin to take similar action. In contrast, the German foreign ministry simply stated it had “acknowledged” of the American classification.
“The danger from the [Antifa Ost] group has recently decreased significantly. The ringleaders and particularly violent members have either already been convicted or are in custody.”
Government spokesperson
