A group of seven people allegedly belonging to the German far-left militant group the Antifa Ost network went on trial on Tuesday, accused for violent actions against rightwing extremists that earned them the nickname “Hammer Gang”.
International terror listing and prosecution case
Recently, the United States designated the organization as a terrorist group together with several other European far-left and anarchist networks.
German prosecutors state the network was responsible for targeting sites in the country and Hungary between 2018 and 2023. Among the incidents is the multiple attacks of a restaurant owner in central Thuringia, whose establishment was known as a gathering spot for far-right supporters.
Some suspects are allegedly accused of employing hammers against suspected far-right members, leaving some with serious injuries.
Trial details and international connections
The trial involving seven defendants is scheduled to continue until mid-2026 in the eastern city of Dresden. Two defendants, identified as Johann G. and Paul M., also face charges for violent incidents in Budapest during early 2023, coinciding with an annual event called the “day of honour” that draws far-right participants from throughout the continent.
Separately, another German activist, Maja T, is facing trial in the Hungarian judicial system for four counts of attempted assault against far-right activists prior to the same rally in 2023.
Regional context and organizational structure
Eastern Germany has historically served as a hotbed for both far-right and anti-immigrant youth organizations, as well as the frequently radical antifascist groups that oppose them.
Prosecutors describe Johann G. as a senior figure within the organization, tasked with organizing violent acts and recruiting accomplices.
Alongside Paul M, he is accused of organizing training sessions where leftwing extremists trained in fighting methods and simulated violent actions. In storage facilities managed by Paul M, the group allegedly accumulated tools, irritant sprays, concealment items and communication devices.
Previous convictions and international reactions
A different activist previously active with the group, Lina E., became a cause celebre within certain radical left communities following her conviction in 2023 for targeting presumed far-right targets.
The US designation renders organization affiliates ineligible to enter the United States, 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 welcomed the US decision and called on the German administration to take similar action. In contrast, the country's diplomatic office simply stated it had “acknowledged” of the American classification.
“The danger posed by the organization has recently decreased significantly. The ringleaders and particularly violent members have received convictions or remain detained.”
Government spokesperson
