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Seven individuals allegedly belonging to the German far-left militant group Antifa Ost began their trial on Tuesday, accused for attacks targeting rightwing extremists that resulted in the moniker “Hammer Gang”.

Global terrorist designation and legal charges

Earlier this month, the US government designated Antifa Ost as a terrorist organization along with multiple additional European far-left and anarchist groups.

German prosecutors claim the group was behind attacks on sites in the country and neighboring Hungary between 2018 and 2023. Included in the allegations is the multiple attacks of a business proprietor in Thuringia, whose establishment was known as a gathering spot for rightwing activists.

Some suspects are allegedly accused of employing hammers against suspected far-right members, causing several severely injured.

Court proceedings and cross-border allegations

The trial involving seven defendants is expected to run until mid-2026 in the eastern city of Dresden, Germany. Two defendants, named as Johann G and Paul M., also face charges for attacks in the Hungarian capital during February 2023, around an yearly gathering called the “day of honor” that attracts rightwing extremists from across Europe.

In a related case, another German activist, Maja T., is facing trial in Hungary for four counts of attempted assault against far-right activists in the lead-up to the identical event in 2023.

Regional context and group hierarchy

Eastern Germany has historically served as a hotbed for both right-wing extremist and anti-immigrant youth organizations, as well as the frequently radical antifascist groups that oppose them.

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

Alongside Paul M., he is accused of organizing training sessions where radical left activists practised combat techniques and simulated violent actions. In storage facilities overseen by Paul M, the group allegedly accumulated tools, pepper spray, concealment items and communication devices.

Prior legal cases and international reactions

Another militant formerly involved with the group, Lina E., became a cause celebre 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.

Germany's far-right AfD party welcomed the American move and urged the German administration to take similar action. However, the country's diplomatic office simply stated it had “taken note” of the US designation.

“The danger posed by the organization has substantially diminished lately. The ringleaders and most aggressive participants have either received convictions or remain detained.”

Interior ministry spokesperson