In a freshly published autobiography, named Ithaki, the ex- prime minister Tsipras pulls no punches while he reflects on the chaotic period of Greece's financial crisis.
A Controversial Choice
According to Tsipras's version, he chose that maverick economist Varoufakis as the finance minister largely because of the latter's international reputation and his very persuasive skills when it came to communicator.
“He was, actually, more like a star and less of an economic expert,” stated Tsipras.
Conflicting Priorities
Tsipras claims that his finance chief had his own agenda that included promoting his books as well as testing out his own economic models on the nation rather than genuinely fighting for its economic stability.
He wrote how those discussions to prevent insolvency became “not just a way to secure improved terms for the country. They became an experiment, an historic opportunity to prove the validity of Varoufakis's ideas.”
High-Stakes Talks
Amid volatile discussions, Greece came dangerously close to leaving the single currency area.
On the line was both the country's destiny and the severe austerity policies required in exchange for financial aid by foreign lenders.
Unsuccessful Alternatives
Attempts to secure financing from other sources, including an urgent plea to the Kremlin to purchase Greek government bonds, went unanswered.
Assisting Greece would be equivalent to throwing money in the trash-can, the Russian leader is reputed to have told his Greek counterpart during their meeting.
Public Vote and U-Turn
In July 2015, the harsh bailout terms were put to a public vote, a move which threw Europe into a deeper crisis of identity.
Even though the vote was carried decisively by voters against austerity, the prime minister had little option to ignore the result then negotiate a rescue deal with creditors which turned out to be even harsher.
Breaking Point
Tsipras revealed that he began to doubt Varoufakis quite early on.
“Varoufakis was the face of negotiation, the man who drew media attention, who graced the front pages of magazines the world over … it seemed he was enjoying the spotlight.”
When the minister outlined a backup strategy that included creating a parallel currency as well as distributing vouchers to retirees, Tsipras knew it was game over questioning Varoufakis: “Can you be serious?”
Lasting Rebuke
In the book, Tsipras concludes how his former ally demonstrated himself “unsuitable for a deal demanding complex and sensitive management.”
Tsipras further wrote how his aggressive style made him increasingly isolated with colleagues, put Greece at risk, while helped hardliners who were pushing for Grexit.
This retelling of events has been met with anger along with stunned disbelief among certain groups, whereas Varoufakis has so far kept a deafening silence on the matter.
