In a recently unveiled memoir, called Ithaki, the former leader Tsipras spares no criticism while he reflects on that chaotic era during Greece's financial crisis.
An Unconventional Choice
In the ex-PM's account, he chose the unorthodox economist Yanis Varoufakis to be his finance minister primarily due to his international reputation along with his “extremely attractive” abilities as a public orator.
“He was, actually, more of a star and less of an economist,” stated the 51-year-old.
Clashing Agendas
The former leader suggests that his finance chief possessed a personal agenda which involved promoting Varoufakis's books as well as experimenting with his theories on Greece instead of genuinely advocating its economic stability.
Tsipras noted how those talks to stave off insolvency were “not only a method of achieving improved terms for Greece. They were a test, an historic chance to prove the truth of Varoufakis's ideas.”
Critical Talks
During volatile discussions, Greece found itself dangerously close to exiting the eurozone.
On the line lay both the country's destiny but also the harsh austerity measures demanded in exchange for rescue loans by international creditors.
Failed Options
Attempts to find financing from other sources, including a desperate plea to the Kremlin to buy Greek government bonds, were rejected.
Helping Greece was tantamount to throwing money in the trash-can, Putin reportedly told his Greek counterpart during their meeting.
Referendum and U-Turn
In July 2015, the punitive bailout terms were put to a public vote, an action that plunged the EU into deeper crisis of identity.
Even though the referendum was won resoundingly by those who opposed austerity, Tsipras had little option to ignore the result then negotiate a rescue deal from creditors that turned out to be tougher.
Breaking Point
Tsipras claimed how he began to doubt his finance minister quite early on.
“He was the public image of the talks, the man who attracted publicity, who graced the covers of publications globally … it seemed he was enjoying the spotlight.”
After Varoufakis proposed a backup strategy involving creating a parallel currency as well as issuing vouchers to pensioners, Tsipras said he realised that it was game over and asked Varoufakis: “Is this for real?”
Enduring Criticism
In the book, the author asserts that his former ally had proved himself “unsuitable for an agreement that required complex and sensitive handling.”
Tsipras also claimed how Varoufakis's aggressive approach made him more and more alone with colleagues, put Greece at risk, while helped hardliners who were advocating Grexit.
This account of history has provoked fury and shock among certain groups, while Varoufakis has so far maintained a deafening silence regarding these claims.
