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A group of seven people allegedly belonging to the German far-left militant group the Antifa Ost network went on trial on Tuesday, facing charges for attacks targeting far-right activists that resulted in the nickname “Hammer Gang”.

International terrorist designation and prosecution case

Recently, the United States designated the organization as a terrorist organization together with multiple additional European far-left and anarchist groups.

German prosecutors claim the group was behind attacks on sites in the country and Hungary between 2018 and 2023. Among the incidents is the multiple attacks of a restaurant owner in Thuringia, whose establishment reportedly served as a meeting point for rightwing activists.

Some suspects are allegedly accused of using hammers against presumed rightwing extremists, causing several with serious injuries.

Trial details and international connections

The trial involving seven defendants is expected to run until July 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 honour” that attracts rightwing extremists from throughout the continent.

Separately, another German activist, Maja T., is facing trial in the Hungarian judicial system for four counts of attempted violent acts against far-right activists in the lead-up to the same rally in 2023.

Regional context and organizational structure

Eastern Germany has historically served as a breeding ground for both right-wing extremist and anti-immigration youth organizations, as well as the often militant 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.

Alongside Paul M, he is accused of organizing instruction courses where radical left activists practised combat techniques and simulated violent actions. At depots managed by Paul M, the network reportedly stockpiled hammers, pepper spray, concealment items and communication devices.

Prior legal cases and international reactions

A different activist formerly involved with the group, Lina E., emerged as a symbolic figure within some far-left activist circles following her 2023 guilty verdict for targeting suspected right-wing individuals.

The US designation renders organization affiliates barred from entering the United States, blocks financial holdings they could possess within the American economy and criminalizes providing material support to them.

Germany's far-right AfD party applauded the American move and urged the German administration to follow suit. In contrast, the German foreign ministry merely commented it had “acknowledged” of the US designation.

“The threat from the organization has recently decreased significantly. Key leaders and particularly violent members have already been convicted or remain detained.”

Government representative