A group of seven people allegedly belonging to the left-wing extremist organization the Antifa Ost network began their trial on Tuesday, accused for attacks targeting far-right activists that resulted in the moniker “Hammer Gang”.
International terrorist designation and legal charges
Recently, the US government classified Antifa Ost as a terrorist group along with several other left-wing extremist and anarchist networks.
Authorities in Germany claim the group was responsible for targeting sites in Germany and Hungary from 2018 through 2023. Included in the allegations is the multiple attacks of a restaurant owner in central Thuringia, whose establishment was known 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.
Trial details and international connections
The trial involving six men and one woman is expected to run until mid-2026 in the eastern city of Dresden, Germany. Two defendants, named as Johann G. and Paul M, are additionally accused for attacks in the Hungarian capital during February 2023, coinciding with an yearly gathering known as the “day of honour” that draws rightwing extremists from across Europe.
Separately, another German activist, Maja T., is currently on trial in Hungary for four counts of attempted violent acts against far-right activists prior to the same rally in that year.
Historical background and group hierarchy
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 antifascist groups that oppose them.
Prosecutors describe Johann G. as a senior figure within Antifa Ost, tasked with planning attacks and bringing in new members.
Together with Paul M., he is alleged to have arranged training sessions where radical left activists practised combat techniques and rehearsed attacks. In storage facilities managed by the suspect, the group allegedly accumulated hammers, pepper spray, concealment items and communication devices.
Previous convictions and international reactions
Another militant formerly involved with the organization, Lina E., emerged as a cause celebre within certain radical left communities following her conviction in 2023 for targeting suspected right-wing individuals.
The US designation makes group members ineligible to enter the US, freezes any assets they may have within the American economy and makes it illegal providing material support to them.
Germany's far-right AfD party welcomed the US decision and called on the government in Berlin to follow suit. In contrast, the German foreign ministry merely commented it had “taken note” of the US designation.
“The danger from the [Antifa Ost] group has recently decreased significantly. The ringleaders and most aggressive participants have either already been convicted or are in custody.”
Government spokesperson
