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Within his newly released personal account, titled Ithaki, the ex- premier Tsipras spares no criticism as he examines that turbulent era of Greece's economic turmoil.

An Unconventional Appointment

In the ex-PM's recollections, he appointed the maverick economist Yanis Varoufakis as his finance minister primarily due to the latter's worldwide fame and Varoufakis's very persuasive abilities as a communicator.

“In reality, he was, truthfully, more of a personality and less of an economic expert,” recalled Tsipras.

Conflicting Agendas

Tsipras claims how Varoufakis possessed his own motives that involved advancing his publications as well as experimenting with his own theories on the nation rather than genuinely advocating its financial survival.

He wrote how the discussions to prevent bankruptcy became “not just a way to secure improved terms for the country. They became a test, an historic chance to prove the validity of Varoufakis's economic theories.”

Critical Talks

Amid volatile negotiations, the country came dangerously close to leaving the single currency area.

On the line lay both Greece's future but also those harsh austerity measures demanded in exchange for rescue loans from international creditors.

Unsuccessful Alternatives

Efforts to secure funds elsewhere, including an urgent plea to Russia to buy Greek bonds, went unanswered.

Assisting Greece was equivalent to throwing money in the trash-can, the Russian leader is reputed to have informed Tsipras in Moscow.

Public Vote and U-Turn

In July 2015, the punitive bailout terms were put to a popular referendum, an action which threw Europe into further crisis of identity.

Although the vote was carried resoundingly by those against austerity, the prime minister had little option but to reject its outcome then negotiate a bailout package from creditors which turned out to be more severe.

Final Straw

Tsipras claimed that he began to doubt his finance minister quite early on.

“Varoufakis was the face of negotiation, the figure who drew media attention, who graced the covers of magazines globally … he gave the impression he relished his new role.”

After Varoufakis outlined a contingency plan that included establishing a secondary currency as well as issuing coupons to pensioners, Tsipras said he realised that it was game over questioning him: “Is this for real?”

Enduring Criticism

Within the memoir, the author asserts how Varoufakis demonstrated himself to be “unfit for an agreement that required intricate and sensitive handling.”

He also wrote that his aggressive approach made him increasingly isolated among peers, endangered the country, and helped hardliners that were pushing for Grexit.

The retelling of history has been met with anger along with stunned disbelief among certain groups, whereas the former minister has kept a conspicuous quiet regarding these claims.