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A group of seven people accused of being the German far-left militant group Antifa Ost went on trial on Tuesday, accused for attacks targeting rightwing extremists that earned them the moniker “the hammer group”.

International terrorist designation and prosecution case

Recently, the US government designated the organization as a terrorist group together with multiple additional European far-left and anarchist groups.

Authorities in Germany state the network was behind attacks on sites in Germany and Hungary between 2018 and 2023. Included in the allegations is the repeated targeting of a restaurant owner in Thuringia, whose venue was known as a gathering spot for rightwing activists.

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

Trial details and international connections

The trial involving seven defendants is expected to run until mid-2026 in the eastern city of Dresden, Germany. A pair of suspects, identified as Johann G. and Paul M, also face charges for attacks in Budapest during early 2023, around an yearly gathering known as the “day of honour” that draws rightwing extremists from throughout the continent.

In a related case, a different German individual, Maja T, is facing trial in the Hungarian judicial system for four counts of attempted assault against neo-Nazis in the lead-up to the same rally in 2023.

Regional context and group hierarchy

Eastern Germany has historically served as a hotbed for both far-right and anti-immigrant youth groups, as well as the frequently radical antifascist groups that oppose them.

Authorities characterize Johann G as a high-ranking member within Antifa Ost, responsible for planning attacks and recruiting accomplices.

Together with Paul M, he is accused of organizing training sessions where leftwing extremists trained in fighting methods and rehearsed attacks. At depots managed by Paul M, the group reportedly stockpiled tools, irritant sprays, disguises and communication devices.

Prior legal cases and international reactions

Another militant formerly involved with the group, Lina E, emerged as a cause celebre within certain radical left communities following her conviction in 2023 for attacks on presumed far-right targets.

The US designation makes group members ineligible to enter the US, blocks financial holdings they may have within the American economy and makes it illegal providing material support to them.

Germany's far-right Alternative for Germany welcomed the US decision and urged the German administration to follow suit. However, the German foreign ministry simply stated it had “acknowledged” of the American classification.

“The threat from the organization has substantially diminished lately. Key leaders and most aggressive participants have received convictions or are in custody.”

Government spokesperson