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Seven individuals allegedly belonging to the German far-left militant group Antifa Ost went on trial on Tuesday, accused for attacks targeting far-right activists that resulted in the moniker “the hammer group”.

Global terror listing and prosecution case

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

German prosecutors state the group was responsible for attacks on locations in Germany and neighboring Hungary between 2018 and 2023. Among the incidents is the multiple attacks of a restaurant owner in Thuringia, whose venue reportedly served as a gathering spot for rightwing activists.

Some suspects are said to have employing hammers against suspected far-right members, causing several with serious injuries.

Trial details and international connections

Court proceedings involving seven defendants is expected to run until mid-2026 in the city of Dresden, Germany. Two defendants, named as Johann G. and Paul M., are additionally accused for violent incidents in Budapest during February 2023, around an yearly gathering known as the “day of honour” that attracts far-right participants from across Europe.

In a related case, another German activist, Maja T, is currently on trial in Hungary for four counts of attempted assault against neo-Nazis prior to the identical event in that year.

Historical background and organizational structure

The former East Germany has long been a breeding ground for both far-right and anti-immigration youth groups, as well as the often militant antifascist groups that counter them.

Authorities characterize Johann G as a senior figure within Antifa Ost, responsible for organizing violent acts and bringing in new members.

Together with Paul M., he is alleged to have arranged training sessions where leftwing extremists practised combat techniques and rehearsed attacks. In storage facilities overseen by Paul M, the network allegedly accumulated hammers, pepper spray, concealment items and mobile phones.

Previous convictions and global responses

A different activist formerly involved with the group, Lina E., emerged as a symbolic figure within certain radical left communities following her conviction in 2023 for attacks on suspected right-wing individuals.

America's terrorist listing renders organization affiliates barred from entering the US, blocks financial holdings they may have within the world’s largest economy and makes it illegal providing material support to them.

The German right-wing Alternative for Germany applauded the American move and called on the German administration to take similar action. However, the country's diplomatic office merely commented it had “taken note” of the US designation.

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

Interior ministry spokesperson