A group of seven people accused of being the German far-left militant group Antifa Ost began their trial on this week, accused for violent actions against rightwing extremists that earned them the moniker “Hammer Gang”.
International terror listing and prosecution case
Recently, the US government classified Antifa Ost as a terrorist group together with multiple additional European far-left and anarchist networks.
Authorities in Germany claim the group was behind attacks on sites in the country and neighboring Hungary between 2018 and 2023. Included in the allegations is the multiple attacks 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 presumed rightwing extremists, leaving some with serious injuries.
Trial details and international connections
Court proceedings involving seven defendants is expected to run until mid-2026 in the eastern city of Dresden. Two defendants, identified as Johann G. and Paul M., also face charges for attacks in Budapest during February 2023, coinciding with an yearly gathering known as the “day of honor” that attracts rightwing extremists from across Europe.
Separately, a different German individual, Maja T., is currently on trial in Hungary for four counts 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 historically served as a hotbed for both far-right and anti-immigrant youth organizations, as well as the often militant anti-fascist networks that oppose them.
Authorities characterize Johann G as a high-ranking member within the organization, tasked with planning attacks and recruiting accomplices.
Together with Paul M, he is alleged to have arranged instruction courses where leftwing extremists trained in fighting methods and rehearsed attacks. In storage facilities managed by Paul M, the group reportedly stockpiled hammers, irritant sprays, concealment items and mobile phones.
Previous convictions and global responses
Another militant previously active with the group, Lina E., emerged as a symbolic figure within some far-left activist circles following her conviction in 2023 for targeting presumed far-right targets.
America's terrorist listing renders organization affiliates ineligible to enter the United States, blocks financial holdings they could possess within the American economy and makes it illegal providing material support to them.
The German right-wing AfD party welcomed the US decision and called on the government in Berlin to take similar action. However, the German foreign ministry merely commented it had “taken note” of the US designation.
“The danger posed by the [Antifa Ost] group has recently decreased significantly. The ringleaders and particularly violent members have either received convictions or remain detained.”
Interior ministry spokesperson
