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In a recently unveiled personal account, named Ithaki, the former premier Tsipras does not hold back as he revisits the chaotic period of Greece's debt drama.

An Unconventional Appointment

In Tsipras's recollections, he appointed that unorthodox economist Varoufakis to be his finance minister primarily because of his international reputation and Varoufakis's very persuasive abilities when it came to communicator.

“In reality, he was, in reality, more of a star and less of an economist,” stated Tsipras.

Clashing Priorities

The former leader alleges that Varoufakis had a personal agenda which included promoting his books as well as experimenting with his theories using the nation rather than genuinely advocating its economic stability.

Tsipras explained how those talks to stave off insolvency were “not only a method of achieving improved terms for Greece. They were an experiment, a monumental opportunity to demonstrate the validity of his theories.”

Critical Talks

During rollercoaster discussions, Greece came perilously close to exiting the eurozone.

On the line lay both Greece's destiny but also the harsh austerity policies required in return for financial aid by international creditors.

Failed Options

Attempts to secure financing elsewhere, such as an urgent plea to the Kremlin to purchase Greek bonds, went unanswered.

Helping Greece was equivalent to throwing money into the garbage, the Russian leader reportedly informed his Greek counterpart during their meeting.

Referendum Followed by U-Turn

In July 2015, those harsh conditions were subjected to a popular referendum, a move that threw the EU into a deeper existential crisis.

Although the referendum was won decisively by those who opposed austerity, the prime minister had little option to ignore the result and agree to a rescue deal from foreign lenders that proved to be tougher.

Final Straw

Tsipras revealed that he began to doubt his finance minister relatively soon.

“Varoufakis was the public image of negotiation, the figure who drew media attention, who appeared on the covers of magazines the world over … it seemed he was enjoying his new role.”

When the minister proposed a contingency plan that included establishing a secondary currency as well as issuing vouchers to pensioners, the leader said he realised that it was the end questioning him: “Is this for real?”

Enduring Rebuke

Within the book, the author asserts how Varoufakis had proved himself “unfit for an agreement demanding intricate and sensitive handling.”

He further claimed that his confrontational approach left him increasingly isolated among peers, put Greece at risk, and assisted hawks who were advocating Grexit.

The account of history has provoked fury and stunned disbelief among certain groups, whereas Varoufakis has maintained a conspicuous quiet on the matter.