According to Volmer, in this way Germany could demonstrate to "the Turkish despot" that the freedom of expression in Europe is untouchable.
"Now she [Merkel] can show that the press freedom in countries such as Germany is more important than good relations with a problematic ally, even if you need it," the journalist wrote.
According to the journalist, Turkey remains an important partner for Merkel with regard to the current refugee crisis and its resolution. In this connection, many believe that the recent EU-Turkey deal makes the German Chancellor dependent on the Turkish leader.
For instance, Berliner Zeitung wrote that Merkel is facing a very complicated political dilemma as she risks offending her most important partner in the event that she rejects Erdogan's claims.
"The Turkish President can be called unpredictable, and theoretically it can lead to the breakdown of the agreements between the EU and Turkey on the limitation of the refugee inflow from the Middle East to Europe. In any case, Erdogan may well begin demanding a higher price for his support," the newspaper wrote.
At the same time, Volmer argued that Merkel could use the incident as an opportunity to "show the red line" and put Erdogan in his place. In accordance with German law, the prosecution on charges of "insulting government institutions and representatives of another state" can take place only in case of a special decision of the German government.
However, most likely, this won't happen, even if it would hurt Erdogan's feelings, the author concluded.
