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Seven individuals allegedly belonging to the German far-left militant group the Antifa Ost network began their trial on Tuesday, accused for attacks targeting rightwing extremists that earned them the moniker “the hammer group”.

Global terror listing and legal charges

Earlier this month, the United States designated the organization as a terrorist group together with multiple additional left-wing extremist and anarchist groups.

Authorities in Germany state the network was behind targeting locations in Germany and Hungary from 2018 through 2023. Included in the allegations is the repeated targeting of a restaurant owner in Thuringia, whose venue was known as a gathering spot for far-right supporters.

Certain individuals are said to have using hammers against presumed rightwing extremists, leaving some with serious injuries.

Trial details and cross-border allegations

The trial involving six men and one woman is expected to run until mid-2026 in the eastern 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 attracts rightwing extremists from across Europe.

Separately, another German activist, Maja T., is facing trial in the Hungarian judicial system for four counts of attempted assault against far-right activists in the lead-up to the same rally in 2023.

Regional context and organizational structure

Eastern Germany has historically served as a hotbed for both far-right and anti-immigration youth organizations, as well as the often militant anti-fascist networks that counter them.

Authorities characterize Johann G as a high-ranking member within the organization, responsible for organizing violent acts and bringing in new members.

Together with Paul M., he is accused of organizing instruction courses where radical left activists practised combat techniques and simulated violent actions. In storage facilities overseen by Paul M, the network reportedly stockpiled tools, pepper spray, concealment items and mobile phones.

Previous convictions and global responses

Another militant previously active with the organization, Lina E, emerged as a cause celebre 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 United States, blocks financial holdings they may have within the world’s largest economy and criminalizes offering assistance to them.

Germany's far-right AfD party applauded the US decision and called on the government in Berlin to follow suit. In contrast, the country's diplomatic office merely commented it had “taken note” of the US designation.

“The danger posed by the [Antifa Ost] group has substantially diminished lately. Key leaders and particularly violent members have already been convicted or remain detained.”

Government spokesperson