Within his newly released personal account, called Ithaki, the ex- premier Alexis Tsipras does not hold back while he examines the chaotic era of Greece's financial crisis.
An Unconventional Choice
In the ex-PM's recollections, Tsipras appointed the unorthodox academic Yanis Varoufakis to be his finance minister primarily due to his global profile and Varoufakis's highly compelling abilities when it came to speaker.
“In reality, he was, actually, more of a personality and less of an economic expert,” wrote Tsipras.
Conflicting Agendas
Tsipras claims how Varoufakis had his own agenda that involved advancing Varoufakis's books as well as testing out his own economic models on the nation rather than genuinely advocating the country's economic stability.
He noted how the negotiations to stave off insolvency were “not just a way to secure improved terms for Greece. They became an experiment, a monumental chance to demonstrate the validity of his theories.”
Critical Talks
Amid rollercoaster negotiations, Greece found itself dangerously close to leaving the eurozone.
On the line was not only the country's future but also the punishing austerity measures required in return for bailout funds from foreign lenders.
Unsuccessful Alternatives
Attempts to find financing elsewhere, including an urgent plea to Russia to purchase Greek government bonds, were rejected.
Helping the indebted country would be tantamount to throwing money in the trash-can, the Russian leader reportedly informed his Greek counterpart during their meeting.
Public Vote Followed by U-Turn
In July 2015, those punitive bailout terms were put to a popular referendum, a move which plunged Europe into further crisis of identity.
Although the referendum was carried decisively by those against the cuts, the prime minister had little option but to ignore the result and agree to a rescue deal from foreign lenders that turned out to be more severe.
Breaking Point
The ex-PM claimed that he started questioning Varoufakis quite early on.
“He was the public image of negotiation, the figure who drew publicity, who appeared on the covers of magazines globally … it seemed he relished the spotlight.”
When Varoufakis proposed a backup strategy that included establishing a parallel currency and distributing coupons to pensioners, the leader said he realised that it was the end questioning Varoufakis: “Are you serious?”
Lasting Rebuke
In the book, the author concludes how his former ally demonstrated himself “unsuitable for a deal that required intricate and sensitive handling.”
Tsipras also claimed how Varoufakis's confrontational approach made him more and more alone with colleagues, endangered the country, and assisted hardliners that were pushing for Grexit.
This retelling of history has provoked fury and stunned disbelief in some quarters, while Varoufakis has kept a deafening silence regarding these claims.
