In a newly released autobiography, titled Ithaki, the former leader Tsipras does not hold back as he revisits that chaotic era of Greece's economic turmoil.
An Unconventional Choice
In Tsipras's account, he chose the unorthodox economist Yanis Varoufakis to be his finance minister mainly due to the latter's international reputation and his “extremely attractive” skills as a speaker.
“He was, actually, more like a star rather than an economist,” stated Tsipras.
Clashing Priorities
The former leader claims that Varoufakis had a personal agenda which involved advancing his publications as well as experimenting with his game theories using Greece rather than truly advocating its financial survival.
Tsipras explained how those negotiations to stave off bankruptcy were “not just a method to secure improved terms for Greece. They were a test, an historic chance to demonstrate the validity of Varoufakis's ideas.”
Critical Negotiations
During volatile negotiations, the country came perilously close to leaving the single currency area.
On the line lay both Greece's future and those harsh austerity measures required in exchange for financial aid from foreign lenders.
Unsuccessful Options
Attempts to find funds from other sources, including an urgent plea to the Kremlin to buy Greek bonds, were rejected.
Helping Greece would be equivalent to throwing money into the garbage, Putin reportedly told his Greek counterpart during their meeting.
Referendum and Reversal
That summer, the harsh conditions were put to a popular referendum, an action which plunged the EU into deeper existential crisis.
Even though the vote was carried decisively by those against the cuts, Tsipras was forced to ignore the result and agree to a rescue deal with creditors which proved to be more severe.
Final Straw
The ex-PM revealed how he started questioning his finance minister quite early on.
“He was the face of negotiation, the man who attracted publicity, who appeared on the covers of magazines the world over … it seemed he was enjoying his new role.”
After the minister proposed a contingency plan involving creating a secondary currency and issuing vouchers to pensioners, the leader knew that it was game over and asked Varoufakis: “Are you serious?”
Lasting Criticism
In the book, Tsipras asserts that his former ally demonstrated himself to be “unsuitable for an agreement demanding intricate and delicate handling.”
Tsipras further claimed how his aggressive approach made him more and more alone among peers, put Greece at risk, while helped hardliners who were advocating Grexit.
The retelling of events has been met with fury along with shock among certain groups, whereas Varoufakis has so far maintained a conspicuous quiet regarding these claims.
