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Seven individuals allegedly belonging to the German far-left militant group the Antifa Ost network went on trial on Tuesday, accused for attacks targeting rightwing extremists that earned them the nickname “Hammer Gang”.

International terror listing and prosecution case

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

German prosecutors claim the network was behind attacks on locations in the country and neighboring Hungary between 2018 and 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 said to have using hammers against presumed rightwing extremists, leaving some severely injured.

Trial details and cross-border allegations

The trial involving seven defendants is expected to run until July 2026 in the eastern city of Dresden, Germany. A pair of suspects, identified as Johann G and Paul M., are additionally accused for attacks in Budapest during early 2023, around an annual event known as the “day of honour” that attracts rightwing extremists from throughout the continent.

Separately, a different German individual, Maja T, is currently on trial in Hungary for four counts of attempted assault against far-right activists prior to the same rally in that year.

Historical background and group hierarchy

Eastern Germany has long been a hotbed for both right-wing extremist and anti-immigration youth organizations, as well as the frequently radical antifascist groups that counter them.

Authorities characterize Johann G. as a senior figure within Antifa Ost, responsible for organizing violent acts and recruiting accomplices.

Alongside Paul M., he is accused of organizing instruction courses where radical left activists practised combat techniques and simulated violent actions. In storage facilities overseen by the suspect, the network allegedly accumulated tools, irritant sprays, disguises and mobile phones.

Prior legal cases and international reactions

Another militant previously active with the organization, Lina E., became a symbolic figure within some far-left activist circles following her conviction in 2023 for targeting suspected right-wing individuals.

The US designation makes group members barred from entering the US, blocks financial holdings they may have within the world’s largest economy and criminalizes providing material support to them.

The German right-wing Alternative for Germany applauded the American move and called on the German administration to follow suit. However, the country's diplomatic office merely commented it had “taken note” of the American classification.

“The danger from the [Antifa Ost] group has substantially diminished lately. Key leaders and particularly violent members have either received convictions or are in custody.”

Interior ministry spokesperson