Tsipras says Greece must vote "no" in Sunday's referendum to push for better bailout deal

The Greek Prime Minister has repeated his call for Greeks to reject new bailout terms in Sunday’s referendum.

In a televised national address Alexis Tsipras described as “blackmail” the plans proposed by the country’s creditors saying they would only prolong the debt crisis.

He said a no vote would be a triumph for democracy and allow him to negotiate a better and permanent deal to let Greece grow and protect the poor and pensioners.

Tsipras also stated he has no back-up plan to pull Greece out of Europe if the country votes in favour of the bailout plan, accusing people of lying over his intentions. He mentioned no names in his speech but his comments were clearly aimed at senior EU officials.