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Within his newly released autobiography, called Ithaki, the ex- prime minister Tsipras does not hold back while he examines that turbulent period during Greece's financial crisis.

An Unconventional Appointment

According to Tsipras's recollections, Tsipras appointed that maverick economist Varoufakis as the treasury head primarily because of the latter's worldwide fame and Varoufakis's very persuasive abilities when it came to speaker.

“He was, truthfully, more of a star and less of an economic expert,” wrote the 51-year-old.

Conflicting Agendas

Tsipras alleges how Varoufakis possessed his own motives which involved promoting Varoufakis's books as well as testing out his game theories on the nation rather than truly fighting for its financial survival.

Tsipras noted how the discussions to prevent insolvency became “not just a way to secure improved terms for the country. They became a test, a monumental chance to demonstrate the truth of Varoufakis's economic theories.”

High-Stakes Talks

Amid rollercoaster negotiations, Greece came dangerously on the brink of leaving the eurozone.

On the line was both the country's destiny but also the severe austerity policies required in return for financial aid by international creditors.

Unsuccessful Alternatives

Attempts to find financing elsewhere, such as an urgent plea to the Kremlin to purchase Greek government bonds, fell on stony ground.

Helping the indebted country would be equivalent to tossing cash in the trash-can, the Russian leader is reputed to have told his Greek counterpart in Moscow.

Public Vote Followed by U-Turn

That summer, those harsh bailout terms were subjected to a public vote, a move which plunged the EU into deeper existential crisis.

Although the referendum was won decisively by those against austerity, the prime minister was forced but to reject its outcome then agree to a bailout package with foreign lenders which proved to be more severe.

Final Straw

The ex-PM revealed how he started questioning his finance minister quite early on.

“He was the public image of negotiation, the figure who attracted media attention, who graced the front pages of publications the world over … he gave the impression he was enjoying the spotlight.”

When Varoufakis outlined a backup strategy involving establishing a secondary currency as well as issuing coupons to pensioners, the leader said he realised it was the end and asked Varoufakis: “Is this for real?”

Enduring Rebuke

In the book, Tsipras asserts how his former ally had proved himself to be “unfit for a deal demanding intricate and sensitive handling.”

Tsipras further wrote that Varoufakis's confrontational approach made him increasingly isolated with colleagues, put Greece at risk, and helped hawks that were advocating a Greek exit from the euro.

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