France, April 1 -- The men are accused of backing the "United Patriots" group, part of Germany's Reichsburger movement. 

The term Reichsburger ("Citizens of the Reich") refers to a loose grouping of extremists and conspiracy theorists who reject the legitimacy of the modern German republic.

Long dismissed by critics as malcontents and oddballs, they have become increasingly radicalised in recent years and are seen as a growing security threat.

Four members of the "United Patriots" group were jailed in March 2025 over plans to trigger civil war-like conditions in Germany through violence, with the aim of taking over state power. They were also found guilty of plotting to kidnap then-health minister Karl Lauterbach, a figure of scor...