A group of seven people allegedly belonging to the German far-left militant group Antifa Ost began their trial on Tuesday, accused for attacks targeting rightwing extremists that earned them the nickname “the hammer group”.
International terror listing and prosecution case
Earlier this month, the US government designated Antifa Ost as a terrorist group along with several other European far-left and anarchist groups.
German prosecutors claim the group was behind attacks on locations in Germany and neighboring Hungary between 2018 and 2023. Included in the allegations is the repeated targeting of a business proprietor in Thuringia, whose venue reportedly served as a gathering spot for far-right supporters.
Some suspects are allegedly accused of using hammers against presumed rightwing extremists, leaving some severely injured.
Trial details and cross-border allegations
The trial involving seven defendants is scheduled to continue until July 2026 in the city of Dresden. Two defendants, named as Johann G. and Paul M., are additionally accused for attacks in Budapest during early 2023, around an annual event called the “day of honor” that attracts far-right participants from throughout the continent.
In a related case, a different German individual, Maja T, is currently on trial in Hungary for four counts of attempted assault against far-right activists in the lead-up to the same rally in 2023.
Historical background and group hierarchy
Eastern Germany has historically served as a hotbed for both far-right and anti-immigration youth groups, as well as the frequently radical anti-fascist networks that oppose them.
Authorities characterize Johann G. as a senior figure within Antifa Ost, tasked with planning attacks 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. At depots managed by Paul M, the network allegedly accumulated hammers, irritant sprays, disguises and communication devices.
Previous convictions and international reactions
Another militant previously active with the group, Lina E., emerged as a cause celebre within some far-left activist circles following her conviction in 2023 for targeting presumed far-right targets.
The US designation makes group members ineligible to enter the United States, blocks financial holdings they may have within the American economy and makes it illegal offering assistance to them.
The German right-wing AfD party applauded the American move and urged the government in Berlin to follow suit. In contrast, the country's diplomatic office merely commented it had “taken note” of the American classification.
“The threat from the organization has substantially diminished lately. Key leaders and particularly violent members have either already been convicted or are in custody.”
Government spokesperson
