Within his freshly published autobiography, named Ithaki, the former prime minister Tsipras pulls no punches as he examines the chaotic era during Greece's debt drama.
A Controversial Choice
According to the ex-PM's version, he selected that maverick economist Yanis Varoufakis as the treasury head mainly because of his international reputation along with Varoufakis's highly compelling abilities as a speaker.
“He was, in reality, more of a star rather than an economic expert,” wrote the 51-year-old.
Conflicting Agendas
Tsipras alleges how Varoufakis possessed his own agenda which involved promoting his publications as well as experimenting with his game theories on the nation instead of truly advocating the country's financial survival.
Tsipras noted how the talks to stave off insolvency became “not only a method to secure improved terms for the country. They became a test, a monumental chance to demonstrate the truth of Varoufakis's ideas.”
High-Stakes Talks
During volatile discussions, the country came dangerously close to leaving the single currency area.
At stake lay not only Greece's future and those harsh cutbacks required in exchange for rescue loans by foreign lenders.
Unsuccessful Options
Attempts to find funds elsewhere, including a desperate plea to the Kremlin to purchase Greek bonds, went unanswered.
Helping the indebted country would be tantamount to throwing money in the trash-can, Putin is reputed to have informed Tsipras in Moscow.
Public Vote Followed by Reversal
In July 2015, the harsh conditions were subjected to a public vote, an action that threw the EU into a deeper existential crisis.
Even though the referendum was won decisively by those who opposed austerity, the prime minister had little option to reject its outcome and negotiate a rescue deal with creditors which turned out to be even harsher.
Breaking Point
Tsipras claimed that he began to doubt Varoufakis relatively soon.
“He was the public image of the talks, the figure who drew publicity, who appeared on the covers of publications the world over … it seemed he was enjoying his new role.”
When Varoufakis outlined a contingency plan that included establishing a secondary currency as well as issuing vouchers to pensioners, the leader said he realised that it was game over questioning him: “Can you be serious?”
Lasting Criticism
Within the book, the author asserts how Varoufakis demonstrated himself “unsuitable for an agreement demanding intricate and delicate handling.”
Tsipras also wrote how Varoufakis's confrontational approach left him more and more alone with colleagues, put Greece at risk, while helped hawks that were pushing for a Greek exit from the euro.
The retelling of events has been met with anger along with shock among certain groups, while Varoufakis has kept a conspicuous quiet regarding these claims.
