In a freshly published personal account, called Ithaki, the former prime minister Tsipras spares no criticism as he examines the chaotic period of Greece's debt drama.
A Controversial Choice
In the ex-PM's version, he selected the unorthodox academic Yanis Varoufakis to be the treasury head primarily because of the latter's global profile and his “extremely attractive” abilities as a public orator.
“He was, truthfully, more like a star rather than an economic expert,” wrote the 51-year-old.
Clashing Agendas
Tsipras claims that Varoufakis had a personal motives which included advancing his publications as well as experimenting with his own game theories on Greece rather than genuinely fighting for its financial survival.
He explained how those negotiations to prevent bankruptcy became “not just a method of achieving a better deal for Greece. They were a test, an historic opportunity to demonstrate the truth of Varoufakis's theories.”
Critical Talks
During rollercoaster negotiations, the country found itself dangerously close to exiting the single currency area.
On the line lay not only Greece's future but also the severe austerity policies demanded in exchange for financial aid by foreign lenders.
Failed Options
Attempts to find financing elsewhere, such as a desperate plea to Russia to buy Greek bonds, were rejected.
Helping Greece was equivalent to tossing cash into the garbage, the Russian leader is reputed to have informed Tsipras in Moscow.
Public Vote and U-Turn
In July 2015, those harsh conditions were put to a public vote, an action which plunged the EU into deeper existential crisis.
Even though the vote was carried decisively by voters who opposed austerity, the prime minister had little option to reject its outcome and negotiate a bailout package from foreign lenders which turned out to be even harsher.
Breaking Point
Tsipras revealed that he started questioning his finance minister relatively soon.
“He was the face of negotiation, the figure who drew publicity, who appeared on the covers of publications globally … he gave the impression he relished his new role.”
When Varoufakis outlined a backup strategy involving establishing a parallel currency and distributing vouchers to retirees, Tsipras knew it was the end and asked him: “Is this for real?”
Lasting Criticism
In the memoir, the author concludes how his former ally demonstrated himself “unfit for a deal demanding complex and delicate handling.”
Tsipras further claimed how his confrontational style made him more and more alone with colleagues, endangered the country, and helped hawks that were pushing for a Greek exit from the euro.
This retelling of events has provoked fury and stunned disbelief among certain groups, whereas Varoufakis has maintained a conspicuous quiet regarding these claims.
