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Within his freshly published autobiography, titled Ithaki, the ex- leader Alexis Tsipras pulls no punches as he examines that chaotic era during Greece's economic turmoil.

A Controversial Appointment

In the ex-PM's account, Tsipras appointed that unorthodox economist Yanis Varoufakis as his finance minister primarily because of his international reputation and Varoufakis's very persuasive skills when it came to public orator.

“He was, actually, more of a star rather than an economic expert,” stated Tsipras.

Conflicting Agendas

The former leader alleges how his finance chief had a personal agenda that included advancing Varoufakis's publications and testing out his own economic models using the nation instead of genuinely fighting for its economic stability.

He noted how those negotiations to avoid bankruptcy became “not just a way of achieving improved terms for the country. They became an experiment, an historic chance to demonstrate the validity of his economic theories.”

Critical Talks

Amid tense negotiations, the country found itself perilously close to exiting the eurozone.

At stake lay not only the country's destiny and those punishing austerity measures required in return for financial aid from international creditors.

Unsuccessful Options

Attempts to find financing elsewhere, such as an urgent appeal to Russia to purchase Greek bonds, went unanswered.

Assisting the indebted country was tantamount to throwing money in the trash-can, the Russian leader is reputed to have told his Greek counterpart in Moscow.

Referendum Followed by U-Turn

In July 2015, those harsh conditions were subjected to a popular referendum, an action that plunged Europe into deeper crisis of identity.

Although the vote was carried resoundingly by those who opposed the cuts, the prime minister was forced but to reject its outcome then negotiate a rescue deal with foreign lenders which turned out to be even harsher.

Breaking Point

The ex-PM claimed how he began to doubt his finance minister relatively soon.

“He was the face of the talks, the man who attracted media attention, who appeared on the covers of publications globally … it seemed he was enjoying his new role.”

After Varoufakis outlined a contingency plan that included establishing a secondary currency as well as issuing coupons to pensioners, the leader said he realised that it was game over questioning him: “Are you serious?”

Lasting Rebuke

In the book, Tsipras asserts how his former ally had proved himself “unsuitable for an agreement that required complex and delicate management.”

He also wrote how his aggressive style made him more and more alone among peers, endangered the country, while helped hawks that were pushing for a Greek exit from the euro.

The retelling of history has provoked anger along with stunned disbelief among certain groups, while Varoufakis has maintained a deafening silence on the matter.