US President Donald Trump has officially named Antifa a “major terrorist organisation,” tying the anti-fascist movement to increasing political violence. The announcement came Thursday via Trump’s Truth Social account. This followed the murder of conservative activist Charlie Kirk, allegedly by Antifa sympathiser Tyler Robinson.
Federal investigators found bullet casings with anti-fascist slogans and references to “Bella Ciao,” an Italian resistance song. Robinson confessed to the killing in a Discord channel and left a note outlining his plan. White House officials, including Stephen Miller, pointed to this case as proof of left-wing extremism. They argue that organisations bankroll violence.
Antifa, short for “anti-fascist,” isn’t a formal organisation. Instead, it consists of decentralised groups opposed to fascism, racism, and authoritarianism. Some members participate in direct action, including counter-protests and doxxing. While these tactics sometimes lead to violent clashes, critics argue Antifa is more of an ideology than an organised group. They believe Trump’s declaration targets political dissent and weakens civil liberties.
This move stirs controversy about political violence and civil rights in the US, with many questioning the limits of protest movements and law enforcement power.
