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 resulted in the moniker “the hammer group”.
International terrorist designation and legal charges
Recently, the US government designated Antifa Ost as a terrorist group along with multiple additional left-wing extremist and anarchist groups.
Authorities in Germany state the group was behind attacks on locations in Germany and Hungary between 2018 and 2023. Among the incidents is the repeated targeting of a restaurant owner in Thuringia, whose establishment reportedly served as a gathering spot for rightwing activists.
Some suspects are allegedly accused of employing hammers against suspected far-right members, causing several with serious injuries.
Trial details and cross-border allegations
The trial involving seven defendants is expected to run until mid-2026 in the eastern city of Dresden, Germany. A pair of suspects, named as Johann G. and Paul M, are additionally accused for attacks in Budapest during early 2023, coinciding with an annual event known as the “day of honour” that draws far-right participants from across Europe.
Separately, a different German individual, Maja T, is currently on trial in the Hungarian judicial system for four counts of attempted violent acts against far-right activists in the lead-up to the same rally in that year.
Historical background and organizational structure
The former East Germany has historically served as a breeding ground for both right-wing extremist and anti-immigration youth organizations, as well as the frequently radical antifascist groups that counter them.
Prosecutors describe Johann G. as a high-ranking member within the organization, responsible for planning attacks and recruiting accomplices.
Alongside Paul M, he is accused of organizing training sessions where leftwing extremists practised combat techniques and simulated violent actions. At depots managed by Paul M, the group reportedly stockpiled hammers, pepper spray, disguises and communication devices.
Prior legal cases and international reactions
A different activist previously active with the organization, Lina E., emerged as a symbolic figure within some far-left activist circles following her conviction in 2023 for attacks on suspected right-wing individuals.
The US designation renders organization affiliates barred from entering the US, blocks financial holdings they could possess within the world’s largest economy and makes it illegal offering assistance to them.
The German right-wing AfD party welcomed the US decision and called on the German administration to follow suit. In contrast, the country's diplomatic office simply stated it had “acknowledged” of the US designation.
“The threat from the [Antifa Ost] group has substantially diminished lately. Key leaders and particularly violent members have already been convicted or remain detained.”
Interior ministry spokesperson
