Within his recently unveiled autobiography, named Ithaki, the ex- leader Tsipras spares no criticism as he reflects on the turbulent era during Greece's financial crisis.
An Unconventional Choice
In Tsipras's version, he selected that maverick economist Varoufakis as the treasury head mainly because of his worldwide fame and his very persuasive skills as a speaker.
“He was, truthfully, more of a star rather than an economic expert,” wrote Tsipras.
Clashing Priorities
The former leader claims how Varoufakis possessed his own motives that involved promoting his books as well as testing out his theories on the nation instead of genuinely fighting for the country's economic stability.
Tsipras noted how those negotiations to stave off insolvency were “not just a method to secure a better deal for Greece. They were a test, a monumental opportunity to demonstrate the truth of his economic theories.”
Critical Negotiations
Amid volatile negotiations, the country found itself dangerously close to leaving the eurozone.
At stake lay not only Greece's future but also those harsh austerity policies demanded in exchange for financial aid by foreign lenders.
Unsuccessful Alternatives
Attempts to secure financing from other sources, such as an urgent plea to Russia to purchase Greek government bonds, went unanswered.
Assisting Greece would be tantamount to tossing cash into the garbage, the Russian leader reportedly informed his Greek counterpart during their meeting.
Referendum Followed by Reversal
In July 2015, those harsh conditions were subjected to a popular referendum, an action that threw the EU into a deeper existential crisis.
Even though the vote was carried resoundingly by voters who opposed austerity, Tsipras was forced but to reject its outcome then negotiate a rescue deal from foreign lenders which proved to be even harsher.
Breaking Point
Tsipras revealed that he started questioning his finance minister relatively soon.
“He was the public image of negotiation, the figure who drew publicity, who appeared on the front pages of magazines the world over … he gave the impression he relished the spotlight.”
After Varoufakis outlined a contingency plan involving establishing a parallel currency and issuing coupons to retirees, the leader knew it was the end questioning Varoufakis: “Can you be serious?”
Lasting Criticism
In the memoir, Tsipras concludes that his former ally demonstrated himself to be “unfit for a deal that required complex and delicate handling.”
Tsipras further claimed that his aggressive approach made him more and more alone among peers, put Greece at risk, and assisted hardliners that were advocating a Greek exit from the euro.
This retelling of events has provoked anger along with stunned disbelief in some quarters, whereas the former minister has kept a conspicuous quiet on the matter.
