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Within his newly released memoir, called Ithaki, the former leader Alexis Tsipras spares no criticism as he reflects on that chaotic era of Greece's financial crisis.

An Unconventional Appointment

According to the ex-PM's version, he appointed the unorthodox economist Varoufakis as the treasury head mainly due to his international reputation along with his very persuasive skills as a communicator.

“He was, in reality, more like a star rather than an economic expert,” wrote the 51-year-old.

Conflicting Agendas

The former leader suggests that Varoufakis had his own agenda which included promoting Varoufakis's publications as well as experimenting with his own theories using the nation rather than genuinely advocating the country's financial survival.

He wrote how the discussions to stave off insolvency became “not just a method to secure improved terms for Greece. They became an experiment, a monumental opportunity to prove the truth of Varoufakis's ideas.”

High-Stakes Talks

Amid rollercoaster negotiations, the country found itself perilously on the brink of leaving the single currency area.

On the line was not only Greece's future but also the punishing cutbacks required in exchange for rescue loans from international creditors.

Unsuccessful Options

Attempts to find funds from other sources, including a desperate plea to the Kremlin to purchase Greek government bonds, went unanswered.

Helping the indebted country was tantamount to tossing cash into the garbage, Putin reportedly informed Tsipras during their meeting.

Public Vote Followed by Reversal

That summer, those harsh conditions were subjected to a public vote, a move that threw Europe into deeper crisis of identity.

Although the referendum was carried decisively by voters against the cuts, Tsipras was forced to ignore the result then negotiate a bailout package from foreign lenders which proved to be more severe.

Final Straw

Tsipras revealed how he began to doubt his finance minister quite early on.

“Varoufakis was the face of the talks, the man who attracted publicity, who appeared on the front pages of magazines the world over … it seemed he was enjoying his new role.”

After Varoufakis proposed a backup strategy that included establishing a secondary currency as well as issuing vouchers to pensioners, the leader knew that it was the end and asked Varoufakis: “Are you serious?”

Lasting Criticism

Within the book, Tsipras concludes that his former ally demonstrated himself to be “unsuitable for an agreement that required complex and sensitive handling.”

He also claimed how Varoufakis's confrontational approach made him increasingly isolated among peers, put Greece at risk, and assisted hawks who were advocating Grexit.

The retelling of events has provoked fury along with stunned disbelief among certain groups, whereas the former minister has so far maintained a conspicuous quiet on the matter.