Within his freshly published autobiography, called Ithaki, the ex- prime minister Tsipras pulls no punches as he reflects on the chaotic period during Greece's economic turmoil.
A Controversial Choice
In the ex-PM's version, he selected that unorthodox economist Varoufakis to be his treasury head primarily because of his international reputation and Varoufakis's “extremely attractive” abilities when it came to public orator.
“He was, truthfully, more like a star rather than an economic expert,” stated the 51-year-old.
Clashing Agendas
Tsipras claims how Varoufakis possessed a personal motives that involved promoting his publications as well as testing out his own theories using the nation instead of truly fighting for its financial survival.
He explained how the discussions to stave off bankruptcy were “not just a way to secure improved terms for Greece. They became an experiment, a monumental chance to demonstrate the validity of his theories.”
High-Stakes Talks
Amid rollercoaster discussions, the country found itself perilously close to exiting the single currency area.
On the line was both the country's destiny and the harsh austerity measures demanded in return for bailout funds by foreign lenders.
Unsuccessful Alternatives
Efforts to find funds from other sources, such as an urgent appeal to Russia to buy Greek bonds, went unanswered.
Helping Greece was tantamount to throwing money in the trash-can, the Russian leader reportedly informed Tsipras during their meeting.
Referendum Followed by Reversal
In July 2015, those harsh bailout terms were put to a popular referendum, an action which plunged the EU into a further existential crisis.
Even though the vote was carried resoundingly by those against the cuts, the prime minister was forced to ignore the result and agree to a bailout package from creditors which turned out to be tougher.
Breaking Point
Tsipras claimed that he started questioning Varoufakis quite early on.
“He was the public image of the talks, the man who drew publicity, who appeared on the front pages of magazines globally … he gave the impression he was enjoying his new role.”
After the minister outlined a backup strategy involving establishing a parallel currency as well as distributing coupons to pensioners, the leader said he realised it was game over questioning him: “Are you serious?”
Enduring Rebuke
In the memoir, Tsipras asserts how his former ally had proved himself “unfit for an agreement demanding complex and delicate handling.”
Tsipras also wrote that his confrontational style made him more and more alone among peers, put Greece at risk, and assisted hardliners who were advocating a Greek exit from the euro.
This account of events has been met with fury and stunned disbelief among certain groups, whereas Varoufakis has so far kept a deafening silence regarding these claims.
