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Seven individuals allegedly belonging to the German far-left militant group Antifa Ost began their trial on Tuesday, facing charges for violent actions against far-right activists that resulted in the nickname “Hammer Gang”.

International terrorist designation and legal charges

Recently, the US government classified Antifa Ost as a terrorist organization together with several other European far-left and anarchist groups.

German prosecutors claim the group was responsible for targeting locations in the country and Hungary between 2018 and 2023. Included in the allegations is the multiple attacks of a business proprietor in central Thuringia, whose venue reportedly served as a meeting point for far-right supporters.

Some suspects are allegedly accused of using hammers against suspected far-right members, leaving some severely injured.

Court proceedings and international connections

Court proceedings involving six men and one woman is scheduled to continue until July 2026 in the city of Dresden, Germany. Two defendants, identified as Johann G. and Paul M., are additionally accused for violent incidents in the Hungarian capital during February 2023, coinciding with an yearly gathering known as the “day of honour” that attracts rightwing extremists from across Europe.

In a related case, a different German individual, Maja T, is currently on trial in the Hungarian judicial system for multiple charges of attempted violent acts against neo-Nazis in the lead-up to the identical event in 2023.

Historical background and organizational structure

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

Authorities characterize Johann G. as a high-ranking member within Antifa Ost, tasked with planning attacks and bringing in new members.

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

Prior legal cases and international reactions

A different activist formerly involved with the organization, Lina E, emerged as a symbolic figure within certain radical left communities following her 2023 guilty verdict for targeting presumed far-right targets.

America's terrorist listing renders organization affiliates barred from entering the US, blocks financial holdings they could possess within the world’s largest economy and makes it illegal providing material support to them.

Germany's far-right Alternative for Germany welcomed the US decision and called on the government in Berlin to follow suit. In contrast, the country's diplomatic office merely commented it had “acknowledged” of the American classification.

“The danger posed by the [Antifa Ost] group has recently decreased significantly. The ringleaders and particularly violent members have already been convicted or remain detained.”

Interior ministry spokesperson