Heinrich XIII. Prince Reuß and eight other defendants, including a former AfD parliament member and ex-military personnel, are on trial in Frankfurt for allegedly plotting a violent coup against the German government.

The group is associated with the anti-constitutional Reichsbürger movement and is charged with terrorism and supporting a terrorist organization.

Reuß is accused of being the mastermind behind the coup attempt, with plans to lead Germany if successful, and allegedly tried to contact Russia for support.

Birgit Malsack-Winkemann, a former AfD politician and judge, is suspected of aiding in planning an armed attack, while Rüdiger von Pescatore, a former army commander, was also involved.

Other suspects include Maximilian Eder, Michael Fritsch, and Peter Wörner, all with military backgrounds.

The trial began with the reading of charges, accusing the defendants of being members of or supporting a terrorist organization, with Reuß acting as a leader.

Their plans included storming the Bundestag, arresting government officials, and committing high treason, with charges also including weapons violations.

The defendants were motivated by opposition to government measures during the pandemic and various conspiracy theories.

Defense lawyers have questioned the legitimacy of the proceedings and requested various motions, but the court has ruled against allowing audio-visual recordings.

The case is of historical significance for Germany, highlighting the elaborate plans and individuals involved in the alleged coup plot.

The ongoing proceedings are part of a larger effort to combat far-right extremism in Germany, involving a total of 26 suspects in related cases.

Until a verdict is reached, the defendants are presumed innocent.