Rubio says delays in US air defense shipments to Ukraine not deliberate

U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio acknowledged a potential delay in missile interceptor shipments to Ukraine but denied any intention to harm the country. He explained that the demand for interceptors is high globally, and the U.S. has its own needs. Reports indicate that U.S. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth is delaying the signing of contracts for Patriot missiles, which Ukraine needs to counter Russian threats. Rubio emphasized that there is no deliberate political directive against Ukraine. He also mentioned a recent call with President Zelensky to address tensions in U.S.-Ukraine relations, which have worsened following a controversial U.S.-Russia deal.