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In a newly released autobiography, called Ithaki, the ex- premier Alexis Tsipras does not hold back as he examines that turbulent period of Greece's financial crisis.

A Controversial Appointment

In Tsipras's account, Tsipras appointed that maverick economist Varoufakis to be his treasury head largely because of the latter's international reputation along with Varoufakis's very persuasive abilities as a speaker.

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

Clashing Priorities

The former leader claims that his finance chief possessed a personal motives that involved promoting his books and testing out his economic models on Greece instead of truly fighting for its financial survival.

Tsipras wrote that the talks to stave off bankruptcy became “not only a way of achieving improved terms for the country. They were a test, a monumental chance to demonstrate the truth of Varoufakis's economic theories.”

High-Stakes Negotiations

Amid tense discussions, the country found itself perilously on the brink of leaving the single currency area.

On the line lay both the country's future but also the punishing austerity policies demanded in return for bailout funds by international creditors.

Failed Options

Attempts to find financing from other sources, such as a desperate plea to the Kremlin to purchase Greek bonds, were rejected.

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

Public Vote Followed by U-Turn

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

Although the vote was carried resoundingly by those against austerity, the prime minister had little option but to reject its outcome then agree to a rescue deal with foreign lenders that proved to be tougher.

Final Straw

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

“Varoufakis was the face of the talks, the figure who attracted media attention, who graced the covers of magazines the world over … he gave the impression he was enjoying his new role.”

When Varoufakis outlined a backup strategy involving establishing a parallel currency as well as issuing coupons to pensioners, Tsipras said he realised it was the end and asked him: “Are you serious?”

Lasting Rebuke

Within the memoir, Tsipras asserts how his former ally demonstrated himself “unsuitable for a deal demanding complex and sensitive management.”

Tsipras further wrote how his confrontational approach made him more and more alone with colleagues, endangered the country, while helped hardliners who were advocating a Greek exit from the euro.

The retelling of history has provoked fury and shock among certain groups, while the former minister has maintained a conspicuous quiet on the matter.