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Seven individuals allegedly belonging to the left-wing extremist organization the Antifa Ost network began their trial on this week, accused for attacks targeting far-right activists that earned them the moniker “the hammer group”.

International terror listing and prosecution case

Earlier this month, the United States classified the organization as a terrorist group along with several other left-wing extremist and anarchist networks.

Authorities in Germany claim the network was behind attacks on locations in the country and Hungary from 2018 through 2023. Among the incidents is the multiple attacks of a restaurant owner in Thuringia, whose establishment was known as a gathering spot for rightwing activists.

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

Court proceedings and cross-border allegations

Court proceedings involving six men and one woman is scheduled to continue until mid-2026 in the city of Dresden, Germany. A pair of suspects, identified as Johann G and Paul M., also face charges for violent incidents in Budapest during early 2023, around an annual event known as the “day of honour” that draws far-right participants from across Europe.

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

Historical background and organizational structure

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

Authorities characterize Johann G. as a high-ranking member within Antifa Ost, responsible for 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 Paul M, the network allegedly accumulated hammers, irritant sprays, concealment items and mobile phones.

Previous convictions and global responses

A different activist formerly involved with the group, Lina E., became a symbolic figure within some far-left activist circles following her conviction in 2023 for attacks on suspected right-wing individuals.

America's terrorist listing renders organization affiliates barred from entering the United States, blocks financial holdings they could possess within the American economy and makes it illegal offering assistance to them.

Germany's far-right AfD party welcomed the US decision and called on the German administration to follow suit. In contrast, the German foreign ministry simply stated it had “acknowledged” of the American classification.

“The danger posed by the [Antifa Ost] group has recently decreased significantly. The ringleaders and most aggressive participants have either received convictions or are in custody.”

Interior ministry representative