The slogans of perseverance remain, but the NATO allies are talking with increasing openness about possible modalities of a ceasefire agreement between Ukraine and Russia. At the meeting of NATO foreign ministers in Brussels, NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte found it difficult to take countermeasures and focus on the need for further arms deliveries to Ukraine. Following the meeting, he indirectly rejected public speculation about a ceasefire in Ukraine. The allies would have to provide sufficient support to change the course of the war once and for all. It was now a matter of ensuring that Ukraine was in a strong position if peace negotiations were to take place.