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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 violent actions against far-right activists that earned them the nickname “the hammer group”.

International terrorist designation and prosecution case

Recently, the US government designated Antifa Ost as a terrorist organization along with several other European far-left and anarchist networks.

German prosecutors claim the group was behind targeting sites in Germany and neighboring Hungary from 2018 through 2023. Among the incidents is the multiple attacks of a business proprietor in central Thuringia, whose establishment was known as a meeting point for far-right supporters.

Some suspects are allegedly accused of employing hammers against presumed rightwing extremists, leaving some severely injured.

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. A pair of suspects, named as Johann G. and Paul M., are additionally accused for violent incidents in the Hungarian capital 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, a different German individual, Maja T, is facing trial in Hungary for multiple charges of attempted assault against neo-Nazis in the lead-up to the identical event in 2023.

Regional context and organizational structure

The former East Germany has historically served as a breeding ground for both far-right 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 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 overseen by the suspect, the group reportedly stockpiled tools, irritant sprays, concealment items and mobile phones.

Previous convictions and global responses

A different activist formerly involved with the group, Lina E, emerged as a cause celebre within some far-left activist circles following her 2023 guilty verdict for targeting suspected right-wing individuals.

America's terrorist listing renders organization affiliates barred from entering the US, blocks financial holdings they may have within the American economy and criminalizes providing material support to them.

Germany's far-right 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 “taken note” of the US designation.

“The danger posed by the [Antifa Ost] group has substantially diminished lately. The ringleaders and particularly violent members have either received convictions or remain detained.”

Interior ministry spokesperson