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In a recently unveiled autobiography, titled Ithaki, the former prime minister Tsipras does not hold back as he examines that turbulent period during Greece's economic turmoil.

An Unconventional Choice

As per Tsipras's version, he appointed that unorthodox economist Varoufakis to be his treasury head largely due to the latter's global profile along with Varoufakis's highly compelling skills as a communicator.

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

Conflicting Agendas

Tsipras suggests that Varoufakis possessed his own agenda that included advancing his books and testing out his theories on the nation rather than genuinely advocating the country's financial survival.

Tsipras noted that those negotiations to prevent insolvency were “not just a way of achieving improved terms for the country. They were a test, an historic opportunity to prove the truth of his economic theories.”

Critical Talks

Amid rollercoaster negotiations, the country found itself dangerously close to leaving the single currency area.

At stake was not only Greece's future and the punishing cutbacks required in exchange for rescue loans by foreign lenders.

Unsuccessful Options

Attempts to secure financing elsewhere, including a desperate appeal to the Kremlin to buy Greek government bonds, were rejected.

Assisting the indebted country would be tantamount to tossing cash into the garbage, the Russian leader is reputed to have informed his Greek counterpart during their meeting.

Public Vote Followed by U-Turn

That summer, the excoriating bailout terms were put to a public vote, an action which threw Europe into a deeper crisis of identity.

Although the referendum was carried resoundingly by those who opposed the cuts, Tsipras had little option but to ignore the result and agree to a bailout package from creditors which proved to be more severe.

Final Straw

Tsipras claimed how he started questioning Varoufakis relatively soon.

“Varoufakis was the face of the talks, the man who drew publicity, who graced the covers of magazines globally … he gave the impression he was enjoying his new role.”

After the minister outlined a backup strategy that included establishing a secondary currency as well as distributing vouchers to pensioners, the leader said he realised that it was the end questioning Varoufakis: “Are you serious?”

Lasting Criticism

In the memoir, Tsipras asserts how Varoufakis had proved himself “unfit for a deal demanding intricate and delicate handling.”

Tsipras also wrote that Varoufakis's confrontational style made him increasingly isolated with colleagues, endangered the country, and assisted hardliners that were advocating a Greek exit from the euro.

The retelling of events has provoked anger along with shock in some quarters, while Varoufakis has kept a deafening silence regarding these claims.