Oil tanker seized by US Coast Guard in Scottish waters to 'restock food and drink' for crew

A Venezuelan-linked oil tanker seized by the US entered waters north of Scotland to be restock essential supplies.

The Marinera, a vessel previously known as Bella-1, was captured by US forces last week as it travelled north and eastwards through the waters between Iceland and Scotland.

It was berthed in the Moray Firth near Burghead at the request of the US Coast Guard to allow essential supplies, including food and water, to be delivered on board.

John Swinney said he was not given prior notification of the plans to bring the vessel close to the Scottish mainland.

The First Minister said he was “deeply concerned” that the UK Government had not briefed him in advance.

It is understood that the UK had no direct involvement in the replenishment operation.

The tanker is thought to have been pursued across the Atlantic by US forces in an operation which also received support from UK forces, though they did not board the vessel.

A UK Government spokesperson said: “Deterring, disrupting and degrading the Russian shadow fleet is a priority for this government. Alongside our allies, we are stepping up our response to shadow vessels – and we will continue to do so.

“The BELLA 1 entered UK waters to be replenished with essential supplies – including food and water for the crew – earlier today before it continues its onward journey.”

Speaking on Wednesday, John Swinney said he had heard about the ship being in the Moray Firth from media reports.

“I would have expected to have been briefed in advance about steps to accommodate the tanker in the Moray Firth,” he said.

“I’m deeply concerned that I have not been and these issues have been raised with the United Kingdom Government and we’re trying to seek information about this.

“It is not appropriate for the Scottish Government to learn about these issues through media reports.

“There should be advanced briefing from the United Kingdom Government and I am insisting on that.”o learn about these issues through media reports.

“There should be advanced briefing from the United Kingdom Government and I am insisting on that.”