Trump designates Antifa ‘terror organisation’: Was it involved in Charlie Kirk’s murder? 

Trump says designating Antifa 'a major terrorist organization'

US President Donald Trump announced the designation of Antifa as a terrorist organisation, linking the move to recent political violence after the killing of conservative activist Charlie Kirk.

In a post on Truth Social, Trump wrote: “I am pleased to inform our many U.S.A. Patriots that I am designating ANTIFA, A SICK, DANGEROUS, RADICAL LEFT DISASTER, AS A MAJOR TERRORIST ORGANIZATION. I will also be strongly recommending that those funding ANTIFA be thoroughly investigated in accordance with the highest legal standards and practices. Thank you for your attention to this matter!”

The announcement comes as 22-year-old Tyler Robinson faces charges over Kirk’s murder in Utah. Investigators said bullet casings at the scene carried anti-fascist slogans and references to Bella Ciao, an anthem of Italian resistance.

Trump further warned that those financing Antifa would be “thoroughly investigated in accordance with the highest legal standards and practices.”

How is Antifa involved with Charlie Kirk's assassination? 

Antifa is not a formal organisation but a loose network of activists operating through autonomous local groups. Adherents describe themselves as militant opponents of fascism and have been active in protests across the United States, including the violent "Unite the Right" rally in Charlottesville in 2017.

Supporters argue their actions are a form of protection against extremist movements. “The argument is that militant anti-fascism is inherently self-defense because of the historically documented violence that fascists pose, especially to marginalized people," Mark Bray, a Rutgers University historian and author of Antifa: The Anti-Fascist Handbook, told The New York Times.

While many involved focus on community organising and non-violent demonstrations, others justify force if far-right groups are allowed to gain ground. Antifa activists are also known for practices such as "doxing" political opponents and mobilising online networks, which at times have spread misinformation.

The movement came under renewed attention after the killing of right-wing activist Charlie Kirk. Police arrested 22-year-old Tyler Robinson in Utah following the fatal shooting at a student event. The FBI said shell casings from the weapon used carried anti-fascist slogans, including “Hey fascist! Catch!” and references to Bella Ciao, a World War II Italian resistance anthem later adopted by anti-fascist groups.

Investigators have not established that Robinson was a member of Antifa. However, President Donald Trump suggested the suspect had been “radicalized on the internet” and “went bad very quickly.” Court filings indicate Robinson also had personal motives, with reports that he was in a relationship with a transgender roommate and left a note declaring his intent to “take Kirk out.”