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Seven individuals accused of being the left-wing extremist organization the Antifa Ost network began their trial on Tuesday, accused for attacks targeting far-right activists that earned them the nickname “Hammer Gang”.

International terrorist designation and legal charges

Earlier this month, the United States designated Antifa Ost as a terrorist group along with several other left-wing extremist and anarchist networks.

Authorities in Germany state the network was responsible for targeting locations in the country and Hungary between 2018 and 2023. Among the incidents is the multiple attacks of a restaurant owner in Thuringia, whose venue reportedly served as a meeting point for rightwing activists.

Certain individuals are said to have employing hammers against presumed rightwing extremists, causing several with serious injuries.

Court proceedings and international connections

The trial involving six men and one woman is expected to run until mid-2026 in the eastern city of Dresden, Germany. Two defendants, identified as Johann G. and Paul M., also face charges for attacks in the Hungarian capital during early 2023, around an annual event known as the “day of honour” that attracts rightwing extremists from across Europe.

In a related case, a different German individual, Maja T., is facing trial in the Hungarian judicial system for multiple charges of attempted assault against neo-Nazis in the lead-up to the identical event in 2023.

Historical background and group hierarchy

The former East Germany has long been a breeding ground for both right-wing extremist and anti-immigrant youth groups, as well as the frequently radical anti-fascist networks that oppose them.

Prosecutors describe Johann G as a high-ranking member within Antifa Ost, responsible for organizing violent acts and recruiting accomplices.

Alongside Paul M, he is accused of organizing training sessions where radical left activists practised combat techniques and rehearsed attacks. In storage facilities managed by the suspect, the network reportedly stockpiled tools, irritant sprays, disguises and mobile phones.

Prior legal cases and international reactions

Another militant formerly involved with the organization, Lina E, emerged as a symbolic figure within certain radical left communities following her conviction in 2023 for targeting presumed far-right targets.

America's terrorist listing makes group members ineligible to enter the United States, blocks financial holdings they may have within the American economy and criminalizes providing material support to them.

Germany's far-right AfD party welcomed the US decision and urged the government in Berlin to follow suit. In contrast, the country's diplomatic office simply stated it had “taken note” of the American classification.

“The danger from the organization has recently decreased significantly. The ringleaders and most aggressive participants have either received convictions or are in custody.”

Government spokesperson