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A group of seven people accused of being the German far-left militant group the Antifa Ost network went on trial on this week, accused for violent actions against far-right activists that resulted in the nickname “the hammer group”.

International terror listing and prosecution case

Earlier this month, the US government classified the organization as a terrorist group together with several other European far-left and anarchist networks.

Authorities in Germany claim the network was behind attacks on sites in Germany and Hungary from 2018 through 2023. Included in the allegations is the repeated targeting of a business proprietor in central Thuringia, whose venue reportedly served as a gathering spot for rightwing activists.

Some suspects are said to have using hammers against presumed rightwing extremists, causing several with serious injuries.

Court proceedings and international connections

The trial involving six men and one woman is scheduled to continue until July 2026 in the eastern city of Dresden. Two defendants, identified as Johann G. and Paul M, are additionally accused for violent incidents in Budapest during February 2023, coinciding with an annual event known as the “day of honour” that draws far-right participants from throughout the continent.

Separately, another German activist, Maja T., is facing trial in Hungary for four counts of attempted violent acts against far-right activists prior to the same rally in 2023.

Regional context and group hierarchy

The former East Germany has long been a breeding ground for both far-right and anti-immigrant youth groups, as well as the frequently radical antifascist groups that counter them.

Authorities characterize Johann G as a high-ranking member within Antifa Ost, responsible for organizing violent acts and bringing in new members.

Together with Paul M., he is accused of organizing instruction courses where radical left activists practised combat techniques and rehearsed attacks. In storage facilities overseen by the suspect, the network reportedly stockpiled tools, irritant sprays, disguises and communication devices.

Prior legal cases and international reactions

A different activist formerly involved with the organization, Lina E., emerged as a cause celebre within some far-left activist circles following her conviction in 2023 for attacks on suspected right-wing individuals.

The US designation makes group members barred from entering the US, blocks financial holdings they may have within the American economy and criminalizes offering assistance to them.

The German right-wing AfD party applauded the US decision and called on the government in Berlin to follow suit. In contrast, the German foreign ministry simply stated it had “acknowledged” of the US designation.

“The danger posed by the organization has recently decreased significantly. Key leaders and most aggressive participants have received convictions or are in custody.”

Interior ministry spokesperson