Within his newly released personal account, called Ithaki, the former leader Tsipras pulls no punches as he revisits the chaotic era of Greece's financial crisis.
A Controversial Appointment
According to the ex-PM's version, Tsipras selected that unorthodox academic Varoufakis to be the treasury head primarily due to his worldwide fame along with Varoufakis's very persuasive skills as a communicator.
“He was, in reality, more like a celebrity rather than an economist,” stated Tsipras.
Clashing Agendas
The former leader claims that Varoufakis had a personal motives which involved promoting his books as well as testing out his game theories on the nation rather than truly fighting for its economic stability.
Tsipras noted how those discussions to avoid bankruptcy were “not only a method to secure a better deal for Greece. They were a test, an historic chance to demonstrate the validity of Varoufakis's theories.”
Critical Negotiations
During volatile negotiations, Greece found itself dangerously close to exiting the eurozone.
At stake was not only Greece's destiny and those harsh austerity policies required in return for bailout funds by international creditors.
Unsuccessful Options
Attempts to secure funds elsewhere, including a desperate appeal to the Kremlin to buy Greek government bonds, went unanswered.
Assisting Greece would be equivalent to tossing cash into the garbage, Putin reportedly informed his Greek counterpart during their meeting.
Public Vote Followed by U-Turn
In July 2015, those excoriating conditions were subjected to a public vote, an action which plunged the EU into a further crisis of identity.
Even though the vote was carried decisively by those against austerity, Tsipras was forced to reject its outcome then agree to a bailout package with creditors that turned out to be tougher.
Breaking Point
Tsipras revealed how he began to doubt Varoufakis relatively soon.
“He was the face of negotiation, the figure who attracted publicity, who appeared on the front pages of publications the world over … it seemed he was enjoying his new role.”
After the minister outlined a backup strategy that included establishing a parallel currency as well as issuing vouchers to pensioners, Tsipras said he realised it was game over questioning Varoufakis: “Are you serious?”
Lasting Criticism
Within the memoir, Tsipras asserts that his former ally had proved himself to be “unsuitable for an agreement demanding complex and sensitive management.”
He also wrote that his aggressive approach left him increasingly isolated with colleagues, put Greece at risk, and helped hardliners that were advocating a Greek exit from the euro.
The account of events has provoked fury along with stunned disbelief in some quarters, while the former minister has so far maintained a conspicuous quiet on the matter.
