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In a newly released personal account, titled Ithaki, the former premier Tsipras does not hold back as he revisits the turbulent period of Greece's debt drama.

A Controversial Choice

As per the ex-PM's recollections, Tsipras appointed the maverick economist Yanis Varoufakis as the finance minister largely due to his worldwide fame and Varoufakis's highly compelling skills when it came to speaker.

“In reality, he was, in reality, more of a personality rather than an economist,” wrote Tsipras.

Clashing Priorities

The former leader claims how Varoufakis had a personal agenda which included advancing Varoufakis's publications as well as testing out his economic models using the nation instead of truly advocating its financial survival.

Tsipras explained that the discussions to stave off insolvency were “not just a way of achieving a better deal for the country. They were an experiment, a monumental chance to demonstrate the validity of Varoufakis's theories.”

High-Stakes Negotiations

During volatile discussions, Greece came perilously on the brink of leaving the eurozone.

On the line lay not only the country's future but also the punishing austerity policies demanded in return for bailout funds from foreign lenders.

Failed Alternatives

Attempts to find funds from other sources, such as a desperate appeal to Russia to buy Greek bonds, went unanswered.

Assisting the indebted country would be equivalent to tossing cash into the garbage, the Russian leader reportedly informed his Greek counterpart in Moscow.

Referendum and U-Turn

In July 2015, those excoriating conditions were subjected to a popular referendum, a move that plunged Europe into a further crisis of identity.

Although the vote was won resoundingly by those who opposed austerity, the prime minister had little option to reject its outcome and negotiate a rescue deal from creditors which turned out to be tougher.

Breaking Point

Tsipras claimed that he began to doubt Varoufakis quite early on.

“He was the public image of negotiation, the man who drew publicity, who appeared on the front pages of magazines the world over … he gave the impression he relished his new role.”

When Varoufakis outlined a backup strategy involving creating a parallel currency as well as distributing coupons to pensioners, Tsipras knew it was the end questioning him: “Is this for real?”

Enduring Criticism

In the book, Tsipras concludes that Varoufakis demonstrated himself “unsuitable for a deal demanding complex and sensitive handling.”

He also wrote that Varoufakis's aggressive approach left him increasingly isolated with colleagues, endangered the country, and helped hardliners who were advocating Grexit.

The account of events has been met with anger along with stunned disbelief among certain groups, whereas the former minister has so far maintained a conspicuous quiet regarding these claims.