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Seven individuals accused of being the German far-left militant group the Antifa Ost network began their trial on this week, facing charges for violent actions against rightwing extremists that earned them the moniker “the hammer group”.

Global terror listing and legal charges

Recently, the United States classified the organization as a terrorist organization together with multiple additional left-wing extremist and anarchist networks.

German prosecutors state the group was responsible for targeting sites in the country and neighboring Hungary between 2018 and 2023. Included in the allegations is the multiple attacks of a business proprietor in Thuringia, whose establishment was known as a gathering spot for rightwing activists.

Some suspects are allegedly accused of employing hammers against presumed rightwing extremists, leaving some with serious injuries.

Trial details and cross-border allegations

The trial involving seven defendants is scheduled to continue until mid-2026 in the eastern city of Dresden, Germany. A pair of suspects, named as Johann G. and Paul M., are additionally accused for attacks in Budapest during early 2023, coinciding with an annual event called the “day of honour” that draws far-right participants from throughout the continent.

In a related case, another German activist, Maja T., is facing trial in Hungary for multiple charges of attempted violent acts against far-right activists in the lead-up to the identical event in that year.

Historical background and organizational structure

The former East Germany has long been a breeding ground for both far-right and anti-immigrant youth groups, as well as the frequently radical anti-fascist networks that oppose them.

Authorities characterize Johann G. as a high-ranking member within the organization, tasked with organizing violent acts and bringing in new members.

Alongside Paul M, he is accused of organizing training sessions where radical left activists practised combat techniques and simulated violent actions. At depots managed by Paul M, the network allegedly accumulated tools, irritant sprays, concealment items and mobile phones.

Previous convictions and global responses

A different activist formerly involved with the group, 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 makes group members barred from entering the US, freezes any assets they could possess within the world’s largest economy and criminalizes providing material support to them.

The German right-wing Alternative for Germany welcomed the US decision and called on the German administration to take similar action. In contrast, the German foreign ministry merely commented it had “taken note” of the US designation.

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

Interior ministry representative