A group of seven people accused of being the left-wing extremist organization Antifa Ost went on trial on Tuesday, facing charges for attacks targeting far-right activists that earned them the nickname “Hammer Gang”.
Global terrorist designation and prosecution case
Recently, the US government designated the organization as a terrorist group together with several other left-wing extremist and anarchist networks.
Authorities in Germany claim the group was responsible for targeting sites in the country and Hungary between 2018 and 2023. Among the incidents is the multiple attacks of a business proprietor in Thuringia, whose establishment was known as a meeting point for far-right supporters.
Certain individuals are said to have using hammers against presumed rightwing extremists, leaving some severely injured.
Trial details and cross-border allegations
Court proceedings involving seven defendants is scheduled to continue until mid-2026 in the eastern city of Dresden. Two defendants, named as Johann G and Paul M., also face charges for violent incidents in Budapest during early 2023, around an yearly gathering called the “day of honor” that attracts far-right participants from throughout the continent.
In a related case, another German activist, Maja T, is currently on trial in the Hungarian judicial system for multiple charges of attempted assault against far-right activists prior to the same rally in that year.
Historical background and group hierarchy
Eastern Germany has historically served as a hotbed for both right-wing extremist and anti-immigrant youth groups, as well as the often militant antifascist groups that counter them.
Prosecutors describe Johann G. as a senior figure within the organization, responsible for planning attacks and recruiting accomplices.
Together with Paul M., he is accused of organizing training sessions where leftwing extremists practised combat techniques and simulated violent actions. At depots managed by Paul M, the group allegedly accumulated tools, irritant sprays, concealment items and mobile phones.
Previous convictions and global responses
Another militant formerly involved with the group, Lina E, emerged as a cause celebre within some far-left activist circles following her conviction in 2023 for attacks on presumed far-right targets.
The US designation makes group members ineligible to enter the United States, blocks financial holdings they may have within the American economy and criminalizes providing material support to them.
The German right-wing AfD party applauded the American move and called on the government in Berlin to follow suit. However, the country's diplomatic office merely commented it had “taken note” of the American classification.
“The threat from the [Antifa Ost] group has substantially diminished lately. Key leaders and particularly violent members have received convictions or remain detained.”
Interior ministry spokesperson
