Within his recently unveiled personal account, named Ithaki, the ex- prime minister Alexis Tsipras spares no criticism while he examines the turbulent period of Greece's economic turmoil.
An Unconventional Choice
In Tsipras's account, Tsipras selected that unorthodox economist Varoufakis as his treasury head primarily because of the latter's international reputation and Varoufakis's “extremely attractive” abilities when it came to public orator.
“He was, truthfully, more of a celebrity rather than an economic expert,” recalled the 51-year-old.
Clashing Priorities
Tsipras claims how Varoufakis had a personal motives which included advancing Varoufakis's publications and testing out his economic models on the nation instead of truly fighting for the country's economic stability.
He noted that the negotiations to prevent insolvency became “not just a method of achieving a better deal for Greece. They were a test, a monumental opportunity to demonstrate the validity of Varoufakis's economic theories.”
Critical Negotiations
Amid tense negotiations, the country came dangerously close to exiting the eurozone.
On the line lay both Greece's destiny and the severe austerity measures required in exchange for financial aid by foreign lenders.
Unsuccessful Alternatives
Attempts to find financing elsewhere, such as a desperate appeal to the Kremlin to purchase Greek bonds, fell on stony ground.
Helping the indebted country was tantamount to tossing cash in the trash-can, the Russian leader reportedly told his Greek counterpart during their meeting.
Referendum and U-Turn
That summer, those harsh bailout terms were subjected to a popular referendum, an action which plunged Europe into further crisis of identity.
Although the vote was carried resoundingly by voters against the cuts, Tsipras was forced but to reject its outcome then agree to a rescue deal from foreign lenders which turned out to be even harsher.
Final Straw
Tsipras revealed that he started questioning Varoufakis relatively soon.
“Varoufakis was the face of the talks, the man who attracted publicity, who appeared on the covers of magazines globally … he gave the impression he relished the spotlight.”
After the minister outlined a contingency plan involving creating a secondary currency as well as issuing vouchers to retirees, the leader knew it was the end and asked Varoufakis: “Is this for real?”
Enduring Criticism
Within the book, the author concludes that his former ally demonstrated himself “unsuitable for an agreement demanding intricate and delicate handling.”
He further claimed that his aggressive style left him increasingly isolated with colleagues, endangered the country, and assisted hawks that were advocating a Greek exit from the euro.
This retelling of events has been met with anger along with shock among certain groups, while the former minister has maintained a deafening silence on the matter.
