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In a newly released memoir, named Ithaki, the former premier Tsipras spares no criticism as he reflects on that turbulent period of Greece's financial crisis.

An Unconventional Appointment

As per the ex-PM's recollections, Tsipras selected the maverick economist Varoufakis as his finance minister largely because of the latter's global profile and his “extremely attractive” abilities as a communicator.

“He was, actually, more like a personality rather than an economic expert,” recalled Tsipras.

Clashing Agendas

Tsipras suggests how his finance chief had his own motives that included promoting his books as well as experimenting with his own theories using Greece rather than truly fighting for the country's economic stability.

Tsipras noted that those discussions to avoid insolvency became “not only a method of achieving improved terms for the country. They were a test, a monumental chance to demonstrate the truth of Varoufakis's theories.”

Critical Talks

During tense negotiations, Greece came dangerously close to exiting the single currency area.

On the line lay not only Greece's future but also those harsh austerity policies required in return for bailout funds from international creditors.

Unsuccessful Options

Attempts to secure funds from other sources, including an urgent appeal to Russia to purchase Greek bonds, were rejected.

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

Public Vote and Reversal

That summer, those excoriating conditions were subjected to a popular referendum, an action which plunged the EU into further crisis of identity.

Even though the referendum was won decisively by voters who opposed the cuts, Tsipras was forced but to reject its outcome then agree to a rescue deal from creditors that proved to be more severe.

Final Straw

The ex-PM claimed that he began to doubt Varoufakis quite early on.

“He was the public image of negotiation, the man who attracted publicity, who appeared on the covers of publications globally … he gave the impression he was enjoying his new role.”

When the minister outlined a contingency plan that included establishing a parallel currency and distributing coupons to retirees, Tsipras knew that it was game over questioning Varoufakis: “Can you be serious?”

Lasting Criticism

Within the book, the author asserts that Varoufakis had proved himself to be “unsuitable for an agreement demanding complex and delicate handling.”

He also claimed that his confrontational style made him more and more alone with colleagues, endangered the country, and assisted hardliners that were pushing for a Greek exit from the euro.

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