Greece: the gloves are off in Brussels

Exasperation is said to be at its peak in Brussels, as Eurogroup ministers meet once again for last-ditch talks about Greece.

Athens has raised tension further by calling a referendum for July 5 on the country’s bailout deal with its international creditors.

But a crucial payment of 1.5 billion euros must be made by this coming Tuesday or Greece will default on its loans.

Eurogroup leader Jeroen Dijsselbloem:

“That is a sad decision for Greece because it has closed the door on further talks whereas the door was still open in my mind. We will hear from the Greek minister today in our meeting and then talk about future consequences.”

IMF leader Christine Lagarde has told reporters the organisation will continue to work to find a solution to the crisis.