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In a freshly published autobiography, called Ithaki, the former premier Alexis Tsipras does not hold back while he reflects on the chaotic era of Greece's economic turmoil.

A Controversial Choice

In the ex-PM's version, Tsipras appointed that unorthodox economist Yanis Varoufakis as his finance minister primarily due to the latter's global profile and his highly compelling abilities as a communicator.

“In reality, he was, actually, more like a personality and less of an economic expert,” stated Tsipras.

Clashing Agendas

The former leader claims how Varoufakis had his own agenda that included advancing his books as well as testing out his own economic models using the nation instead of truly advocating its economic stability.

He wrote that those talks to stave off insolvency were “not just a way to secure a better deal for Greece. They became a test, an historic chance to demonstrate the truth of his economic theories.”

High-Stakes Negotiations

During tense discussions, the country came perilously close to exiting the eurozone.

On the line was both Greece's destiny but also those severe austerity measures demanded in exchange for bailout funds from international creditors.

Unsuccessful Alternatives

Efforts to secure financing elsewhere, including a desperate plea to the Kremlin to buy Greek bonds, fell on stony ground.

Helping Greece was equivalent to throwing money into the garbage, Putin reportedly told his Greek counterpart during their meeting.

Referendum and Reversal

In July 2015, those excoriating conditions were subjected to a popular referendum, an action which plunged the EU into a deeper existential crisis.

Although the referendum was won resoundingly by voters who opposed the cuts, Tsipras had little option but to ignore the result and agree to a rescue deal from foreign lenders that turned out to be even harsher.

Final Straw

Tsipras claimed that he started questioning Varoufakis relatively soon.

“Varoufakis was the face of the talks, the figure who drew publicity, who graced the covers of publications the world over … he gave the impression he relished his new role.”

When the minister outlined a backup strategy involving establishing a secondary currency as well as issuing coupons to pensioners, Tsipras said he realised that it was the end questioning Varoufakis: “Are you serious?”

Lasting Criticism

Within the book, the author concludes how Varoufakis demonstrated himself to be “unsuitable for a deal demanding intricate and sensitive handling.”

Tsipras also claimed how Varoufakis's aggressive style left him increasingly isolated among peers, put Greece at risk, while assisted hawks that were advocating Grexit.

This account of history has provoked fury along with shock in some quarters, whereas the former minister has maintained a deafening silence on the matter.