Within his newly released memoir, called Ithaki, the ex- premier Tsipras does not hold back as he examines the chaotic era during Greece's debt drama.
An Unconventional Choice
In the ex-PM's recollections, he chose that maverick academic Varoufakis to be his treasury head mainly due to the latter's international reputation and his “extremely attractive” skills when it came to public orator.
“In reality, he was, truthfully, more like a star rather than an economic expert,” stated Tsipras.
Clashing Agendas
Tsipras claims that Varoufakis had a personal motives that involved advancing Varoufakis's publications and experimenting with his own theories using Greece instead of truly fighting for the country's financial survival.
Tsipras noted how the talks to stave off insolvency were “not just a way to secure improved terms for the country. They were a test, an historic chance to demonstrate the truth of his theories.”
Critical Talks
Amid tense discussions, Greece found itself perilously close to exiting the eurozone.
On the line lay not only Greece's destiny but also the punishing austerity policies demanded in return for bailout funds from international creditors.
Unsuccessful Options
Attempts to find financing elsewhere, including a desperate appeal to the Kremlin to purchase Greek government bonds, went unanswered.
Helping Greece would be equivalent to throwing money into the garbage, Putin is reputed to have told Tsipras in Moscow.
Referendum Followed by U-Turn
In July 2015, the excoriating bailout terms were subjected to a public vote, a move that plunged the EU into a deeper existential crisis.
Although the vote was won decisively by voters who opposed the cuts, the prime minister had little option to ignore the result then negotiate a rescue deal from creditors that proved to be more severe.
Final Straw
Tsipras claimed how he began to doubt his finance minister relatively soon.
“He was the public image of negotiation, the man who attracted media attention, who appeared on the front pages of publications the world over … it seemed he was enjoying his new role.”
After the minister outlined a backup strategy involving creating a secondary currency and issuing coupons to pensioners, Tsipras said he realised it was the end questioning him: “Can you be serious?”
Lasting Rebuke
In the book, the author asserts that his former ally had proved himself “unsuitable for an agreement demanding intricate and delicate management.”
Tsipras also claimed how Varoufakis's aggressive approach left him more and more alone with colleagues, put Greece at risk, and assisted hawks that were advocating Grexit.
The retelling of events has provoked fury along with stunned disbelief among certain groups, while Varoufakis has kept a conspicuous quiet regarding these claims.
