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A group of seven people allegedly belonging to the German far-left militant group Antifa Ost began their trial on Tuesday, facing charges for violent actions against rightwing extremists that resulted in the moniker “Hammer Gang”.

International terrorist designation and prosecution case

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

German prosecutors state the group was behind attacks on sites in the country and neighboring Hungary from 2018 through 2023. Included in the allegations is the multiple attacks of a restaurant owner in Thuringia, whose venue reportedly served as a meeting point for rightwing activists.

Some suspects are allegedly accused of employing hammers against suspected far-right members, leaving some with serious injuries.

Court proceedings and cross-border allegations

Court proceedings involving six men and one woman is expected to run until July 2026 in the city of Dresden. Two defendants, identified as Johann G. and Paul M., are additionally accused for attacks in Budapest during February 2023, coinciding with an annual event 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 multiple charges of attempted assault against neo-Nazis in the lead-up to the identical event in 2023.

Regional context and organizational structure

Eastern Germany has historically served as a breeding ground for both right-wing extremist and anti-immigration youth groups, as well as the frequently radical anti-fascist networks that oppose them.

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

Together with Paul M., he is accused of organizing instruction courses where leftwing extremists practised combat techniques and simulated violent actions. In storage facilities overseen by the suspect, the network allegedly accumulated hammers, irritant sprays, concealment items and communication devices.

Prior legal cases and international reactions

Another militant formerly involved with the organization, Lina E, became a cause celebre within certain radical left communities following her conviction in 2023 for targeting suspected right-wing individuals.

The US designation renders organization affiliates barred from entering the US, freezes any assets they may have within the American economy and makes it illegal offering assistance to them.

The German right-wing Alternative for Germany applauded the American move and called on the government in Berlin to follow suit. However, the German foreign ministry merely commented it had “acknowledged” of the American classification.

“The danger from the organization has substantially diminished lately. The ringleaders and particularly violent members have either received convictions or are in custody.”

Interior ministry spokesperson