Scotland is in Putin's sights, warns expert

SCOTLAND is on the "frontline" of increasing tensions between the US and Russia in the North Atlantic, a security expert has warned.

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David Liddington, a former chair of the Royal United Services Institute think-tank, said Scotland's geographic position and reliance on offshore energy meant it was already vulnerable to Russian incursions from its navy and airforce.

A stark reminder of the worsening international situation was given last week when three US special forces aircraft landed at Wick John O'Groats airport before taking part in an operation to seize a Russian-flagged oil tanker accused of sanctions busting.

John Swinney tried to play down the importance of the airport's role in the seizure, which was supported by the UK Government, by claiming the aircraft may not have been involved. But one Labour MSP warned the Scottish Government-owned airport had been used as "staging post" by the US.