Eight German teens face trial for far-right violence

15:30

Eight suspected members of a far-right extremist group in Germany, including minors, are on trial in Hamburg for attacks targeting refugees and left-wing activists. The accused, aged between 14 and 21, face charges of attempted murder and membership in a terrorist organization known as “The Last Defense Wave.”

Several suspects are alleged to have set fire to a cultural center in Altdöbern, Brandenburg, in October 2024. Prosecutors emphasized that the incident caused no injuries “by chance.” Other defendants are accused of firing fireworks at a refugee shelter in Schmölln, Thuringia, in January 2025 and painting Nazi symbols on the building. Some are also charged with assaulting individuals they considered “pedophiles.”

Authorities say the group aimed to “undermine the democratic system through violent acts, primarily targeting migrants and political opponents,” presenting themselves as the “last line of defense for the German nation.” Most suspects were arrested during raids in May 2025. Their youth has sparked renewed debates over online-fueled radicalization among adolescents.

A court spokesperson noted that the indictment reading was public, but future hearings may be held behind closed doors due to the age of several defendants. The trial is expected to continue until May 2026.