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A group of seven people accused of being the left-wing extremist organization the Antifa Ost network began their trial on this week, facing charges for violent actions against rightwing extremists that resulted in the moniker “Hammer Gang”.

Global terror listing and prosecution case

Earlier this month, the United States designated Antifa Ost as a terrorist organization along with several other left-wing extremist and anarchist groups.

Authorities in Germany state the group was behind targeting sites in Germany and Hungary between 2018 and 2023. Among the incidents is the repeated targeting of a restaurant owner in Thuringia, whose establishment was known as a gathering spot for rightwing activists.

Some suspects are said to have employing hammers against suspected far-right members, causing several severely injured.

Court proceedings and international connections

Court proceedings involving six men and one woman is scheduled to continue until mid-2026 in the city of Dresden. Two defendants, identified as Johann G and Paul M., also face charges for attacks in the Hungarian capital during February 2023, coinciding with an yearly gathering called the “day of honor” that attracts far-right participants from throughout the continent.

Separately, a different German individual, Maja T., is currently on trial in the Hungarian judicial system for four counts of attempted assault against far-right activists prior to the identical event in that year.

Historical background and organizational structure

The former East Germany has historically served as a breeding ground for both far-right and anti-immigrant youth organizations, as well as the often militant anti-fascist networks that counter them.

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

Alongside Paul M., he is alleged to have arranged training sessions where radical left activists practised combat techniques and simulated violent actions. In storage facilities managed by Paul M, the network allegedly accumulated tools, pepper spray, disguises and communication devices.

Previous convictions and international reactions

A different activist formerly involved with the group, Lina E, emerged as a cause celebre within some far-left activist circles following her conviction in 2023 for attacks on presumed far-right targets.

The US designation renders organization affiliates barred from entering the US, freezes any assets they may have within the American economy and makes it illegal offering assistance to them.

Germany's far-right Alternative for Germany welcomed the American move and called on the government in Berlin to take similar action. However, the German foreign ministry simply stated it had “taken note” of the US designation.

“The danger from the organization has substantially diminished lately. The ringleaders and most aggressive participants have either already been convicted or remain detained.”

Interior ministry spokesperson