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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 rightwing extremists that earned them the nickname “the hammer group”.

International terrorist designation and prosecution case

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

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

Certain individuals are allegedly accused of using hammers against presumed rightwing extremists, causing several with serious injuries.

Trial details and cross-border allegations

Court proceedings involving seven defendants is expected to run until mid-2026 in the city of Dresden. A pair of suspects, named as Johann G and Paul M, are additionally accused for violent incidents in Budapest during early 2023, around an yearly gathering known as the “day of honour” that attracts 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 same rally in 2023.

Historical background and organizational structure

Eastern Germany has long been a hotbed for both right-wing extremist and anti-immigrant youth organizations, as well as the often militant anti-fascist networks that counter them.

Prosecutors describe Johann G as a high-ranking member within the organization, responsible for planning attacks and bringing in new members.

Together with Paul M., he is alleged to have arranged instruction courses where radical left activists trained in fighting methods and simulated violent actions. In storage facilities overseen by Paul M, the group allegedly accumulated tools, irritant sprays, concealment items and communication devices.

Previous convictions and international reactions

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

America's terrorist listing makes group members barred from entering the United States, freezes any assets they may have within the American economy and criminalizes offering assistance to them.

Germany's far-right AfD party welcomed the US decision and urged the government in Berlin to take similar action. However, the country's diplomatic office simply stated 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 either received convictions or are in custody.”

Government spokesperson