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Seven individuals accused of being the left-wing extremist organization the Antifa Ost network went on trial on this week, facing charges for attacks targeting rightwing extremists that earned them the nickname “Hammer Gang”.

Global terror listing and prosecution case

Earlier this month, the United States classified the organization as a terrorist organization along with multiple additional European far-left 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 business proprietor in central Thuringia, whose establishment 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

Court proceedings involving seven defendants is scheduled to continue until mid-2026 in the eastern city of Dresden. A pair of suspects, named as Johann G and Paul M, also face charges for violent incidents in the Hungarian capital during early 2023, coinciding with an yearly gathering 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 prior to the identical event in that year.

Historical background and organizational structure

Eastern Germany has long been a breeding ground for both far-right and anti-immigrant youth groups, as well as the often militant anti-fascist networks that counter them.

Authorities characterize Johann G as a senior figure within the organization, responsible for organizing violent acts and recruiting accomplices.

Together with Paul M, he is alleged to have arranged training sessions where radical left activists practised combat techniques and rehearsed attacks. At depots managed by Paul M, the network allegedly accumulated tools, pepper spray, disguises and communication devices.

Previous convictions and international reactions

Another militant formerly involved 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.

America's terrorist listing makes group members barred from entering the US, blocks financial holdings they may have within the world’s largest economy and makes it illegal offering assistance to them.

Germany's far-right Alternative for Germany welcomed the US decision and urged the government in Berlin to follow suit. In contrast, the German foreign ministry simply stated it had “taken note” of the US designation.

“The threat from the organization has recently decreased significantly. The ringleaders and particularly violent members have received convictions or remain detained.”

Interior ministry spokesperson