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In a newly released autobiography, called Ithaki, the ex- premier Tsipras spares no criticism while he reflects on that turbulent period during Greece's economic turmoil.

A Controversial Appointment

As per the ex-PM's version, Tsipras selected the maverick academic Yanis Varoufakis to be his finance minister primarily due to his global profile and his “extremely attractive” abilities as a public orator.

“In reality, he was, in reality, more of a personality rather than an economic expert,” recalled Tsipras.

Conflicting Priorities

The former leader alleges that Varoufakis had his own agenda which included advancing Varoufakis's books as well as experimenting with his game theories on Greece rather than truly fighting for its financial survival.

Tsipras explained that those talks to prevent bankruptcy became “not only a method of achieving improved terms for the country. They became a test, a monumental chance to demonstrate the validity of Varoufakis's economic theories.”

High-Stakes Talks

During tense negotiations, the country found itself perilously on the brink of leaving the eurozone.

At stake lay both the country's future but also the punishing cutbacks demanded in return for financial aid by international creditors.

Unsuccessful Alternatives

Efforts to secure financing elsewhere, such as an urgent plea to the Kremlin to buy Greek bonds, were rejected.

Helping the indebted country would be tantamount to throwing money into the garbage, the Russian leader is reputed to have told Tsipras during their meeting.

Referendum Followed by U-Turn

That summer, those punitive bailout terms were subjected to a popular referendum, a move that plunged the EU into deeper existential crisis.

Although the referendum was won decisively by those against austerity, the prime minister was forced but to reject its outcome and negotiate a rescue deal from creditors that proved to be tougher.

Breaking Point

The ex-PM claimed how he started questioning Varoufakis relatively soon.

“Varoufakis was the face of the talks, the man who attracted media attention, who appeared on the front pages of magazines globally … he gave the impression he was enjoying the spotlight.”

After the minister proposed a backup strategy that included establishing a parallel currency and issuing coupons to retirees, the leader knew it was game over questioning Varoufakis: “Can you be serious?”

Enduring Criticism

In the memoir, Tsipras asserts that Varoufakis had proved himself to be “unfit for an agreement that required complex and sensitive handling.”

He further wrote that his aggressive approach left him more and more alone with colleagues, put Greece at risk, while assisted hawks who were pushing for Grexit.

This retelling of history has been met with anger along with stunned disbelief among certain groups, while the former minister has kept a deafening silence regarding these claims.