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Within his recently unveiled memoir, called Ithaki, the former premier Tsipras spares no criticism while he revisits that turbulent period of Greece's debt drama.

A Controversial Choice

In Tsipras's account, Tsipras selected that maverick economist Yanis Varoufakis as his treasury head primarily due to his global profile along with his very persuasive skills when it came to communicator.

“He was, truthfully, more like a celebrity rather than an economist,” stated Tsipras.

Conflicting Priorities

Tsipras suggests how Varoufakis had his own agenda which included promoting his publications as well as experimenting with his economic models using Greece rather than truly fighting for its economic stability.

Tsipras explained how those negotiations to avoid bankruptcy were “not only a method to secure a better deal for the country. They were a test, an historic chance to prove the truth of his theories.”

Critical Negotiations

Amid volatile negotiations, the country came dangerously on the brink of leaving the eurozone.

At stake was not only Greece's future and the harsh austerity policies required in return for financial aid by foreign lenders.

Failed Alternatives

Attempts to secure funds from other sources, including an urgent appeal to the Kremlin to buy Greek government bonds, were rejected.

Helping the indebted country would be tantamount to throwing money into the garbage, the Russian leader is reputed to have informed his Greek counterpart in Moscow.

Referendum Followed by U-Turn

In July 2015, those punitive bailout terms were subjected to a popular referendum, a move which plunged the EU into deeper crisis of identity.

Although the referendum was carried resoundingly by those who opposed the cuts, Tsipras was forced to reject its outcome then negotiate a bailout package from foreign lenders which proved to be more severe.

Breaking Point

Tsipras claimed how he started questioning Varoufakis quite early on.

“He was the face of the talks, the figure who attracted media attention, who appeared on the front pages of magazines the world over … he gave the impression he relished his new role.”

After the minister outlined a contingency plan that included establishing a parallel currency as well as issuing coupons to pensioners, the leader knew that it was the end and asked Varoufakis: “Are you serious?”

Enduring Rebuke

Within the book, the author asserts that his former ally demonstrated himself “unsuitable for a deal that required complex and delicate management.”

Tsipras also claimed that his confrontational approach left him more and more alone with colleagues, put Greece at risk, and assisted hardliners who were advocating Grexit.

The account of events has been met with fury along with shock among certain groups, while the former minister has so far maintained a conspicuous quiet regarding these claims.