In a freshly published autobiography, called Ithaki, the ex- prime minister Tsipras spares no criticism while he reflects on the chaotic period during Greece's financial crisis.
A Controversial Choice
As per Tsipras's version, Tsipras selected that maverick economist Varoufakis as his treasury head mainly because of his global profile and Varoufakis's very persuasive abilities when it came to public orator.
“In reality, he was, in reality, more like a star and less of an economist,” recalled Tsipras.
Conflicting Priorities
Tsipras alleges that his finance chief had a personal motives that included advancing his books and testing out his game theories on the nation instead of truly fighting for its economic stability.
Tsipras explained that the discussions to stave off insolvency became “not just a method of achieving a better deal for the country. They became a test, a monumental chance to prove the truth of his ideas.”
High-Stakes Talks
During tense discussions, the country came dangerously on the brink of leaving the eurozone.
On the line lay both the country's destiny but also those harsh austerity measures required in exchange for financial aid by international creditors.
Unsuccessful Alternatives
Attempts to secure funds elsewhere, such as a desperate plea to the Kremlin to buy Greek government bonds, went unanswered.
Helping Greece was tantamount to tossing cash in the trash-can, the Russian leader reportedly told his Greek counterpart during their meeting.
Referendum and Reversal
That summer, those harsh conditions were put to a public vote, an action which threw the EU into further crisis of identity.
Although the vote was carried decisively by those against austerity, the prime minister was forced to ignore the result then negotiate a rescue deal with creditors that turned out to be even harsher.
Breaking Point
Tsipras revealed how he started questioning his finance minister relatively soon.
“He was the face of negotiation, the figure who drew media attention, who graced the covers of magazines the world over … he gave the impression he was enjoying his new role.”
When Varoufakis proposed a backup strategy involving establishing a secondary currency and distributing coupons to retirees, Tsipras said he realised that it was the end questioning Varoufakis: “Is this for real?”
Enduring Rebuke
Within the book, Tsipras asserts how his former ally demonstrated himself “unsuitable for an agreement that required complex and sensitive management.”
He also claimed that Varoufakis's confrontational approach made him increasingly isolated with colleagues, endangered the country, and assisted hardliners that were advocating a Greek exit from the euro.
The retelling of events has been met with fury and stunned disbelief among certain groups, whereas Varoufakis has so far maintained a conspicuous quiet regarding these claims.
