Within his newly released personal account, called Ithaki, the ex- prime minister Tsipras pulls no punches while he examines the chaotic era during Greece's debt drama.
A Controversial Appointment
In the ex-PM's recollections, Tsipras chose that maverick economist Yanis Varoufakis as his finance minister primarily because of the latter's global profile along with Varoufakis's very persuasive skills as a public orator.
“In reality, he was, actually, more of a celebrity and less of an economic expert,” stated the 51-year-old.
Conflicting Agendas
Tsipras claims that Varoufakis had his own agenda that included advancing Varoufakis's publications as well as testing out his game theories using the nation instead of truly fighting for the country's financial survival.
Tsipras explained how the discussions to avoid bankruptcy were “not only a way to secure improved terms for the country. They were a test, a monumental chance to prove the truth of his economic theories.”
Critical Talks
During tense negotiations, the country found itself dangerously on the brink of leaving the single currency area.
At stake was both the country's future and those harsh austerity policies demanded in exchange for rescue loans from international creditors.
Failed Options
Attempts to secure financing from other sources, such as an urgent appeal to the Kremlin to purchase Greek government bonds, went unanswered.
Helping the indebted country would be equivalent to tossing cash into the garbage, Putin is reputed to have informed his Greek counterpart during their meeting.
Referendum Followed by Reversal
In July 2015, the excoriating conditions were subjected to a public vote, an action that threw Europe into deeper existential crisis.
Even though the vote was carried decisively by voters against austerity, Tsipras was forced to reject its outcome then negotiate a rescue deal with foreign lenders that turned out to be more severe.
Breaking Point
The ex-PM revealed how he began to doubt his finance minister quite early on.
“Varoufakis was the face of the talks, the figure who drew media attention, who appeared on the front pages of magazines the world over … it seemed he was enjoying his new role.”
When Varoufakis outlined a contingency plan that included creating a secondary currency as well as issuing coupons to retirees, Tsipras knew that it was the end questioning him: “Is this for real?”
Lasting Criticism
Within the book, Tsipras concludes that his former ally demonstrated himself to be “unfit for an agreement demanding intricate and sensitive management.”
Tsipras further claimed that Varoufakis's confrontational approach made him more and more alone among peers, endangered the country, while helped hardliners who were pushing for Grexit.
This account of history has provoked fury along with stunned disbelief in some quarters, whereas the former minister has so far maintained a conspicuous quiet on the matter.
