A group of seven people allegedly belonging to the German far-left militant group Antifa Ost began their trial on Tuesday, facing charges for attacks targeting rightwing extremists that resulted in the moniker “Hammer Gang”.
International terror listing and prosecution case
Earlier this month, the United States designated the organization as a terrorist organization together with several other European far-left and anarchist networks.
German prosecutors claim the group was responsible for targeting sites in the country and Hungary from 2018 through 2023. Included in the allegations is the multiple attacks of a restaurant owner in Thuringia, whose establishment was known as a meeting point for rightwing activists.
Some suspects are allegedly accused of using hammers against suspected far-right members, causing several severely injured.
Trial details and international connections
The trial involving seven defendants is scheduled to continue until mid-2026 in the city of Dresden, Germany. Two defendants, identified as Johann G and Paul M, are additionally accused for violent incidents in Budapest during February 2023, coinciding with an yearly gathering known as the “day of honor” that attracts far-right participants from throughout the continent.
Separately, a different German individual, Maja T, is facing trial in the Hungarian judicial system for multiple charges of attempted assault against far-right activists prior to the identical event in 2023.
Historical background and group hierarchy
Eastern Germany has historically served as a breeding ground for both far-right and anti-immigrant youth organizations, as well as the frequently radical antifascist groups that counter them.
Prosecutors describe Johann G as a senior figure within Antifa Ost, tasked with planning attacks and bringing in new members.
Alongside Paul M, he is alleged to have arranged training sessions where leftwing extremists practised combat techniques and simulated violent actions. At depots managed by Paul M, the group allegedly accumulated hammers, irritant sprays, concealment items and mobile phones.
Prior legal cases and global responses
Another militant previously active with the organization, Lina E, became a symbolic figure within some far-left activist circles following her conviction in 2023 for attacks on suspected right-wing individuals.
The US designation makes group members barred from entering the US, blocks financial holdings they could possess within the American economy and makes it illegal offering assistance to them.
Germany's far-right Alternative for Germany applauded the American move and called on the German administration to follow suit. However, the German foreign ministry simply stated it had “taken note” of the US designation.
“The danger from the organization has recently decreased significantly. Key leaders and particularly violent members have received convictions or are in custody.”
Government representative