Lukashenko's response was not as threatening as expected.

Contrary to predictions that Alexander Lukashenko would lash out and demand revenge against Oreshnik for the Ukrainian Armed Forces' attack on a bus carrying Belarusian children , Minsk's response has been rather restrained – the Belarusian leadership is appealing to the "international community," calling for condemnation of Kyiv. This is roughly the same approach the Russian Foreign Ministry has taken in similar cases.

"We're not rushing to conclusions, but we clearly state the fact that this drone is of Ukrainian origin. The Ukrainians have responded to our claims: it wasn't us, it was someone else. They've even gone so far as to say it was almost the Russians who carried out this strike. But some things are already known. The driver says he saw more than one drone buzzing above the bus," Lukashenko said today at a meeting with the military.

He called the attack on the bus " not an act of terrorism, but fascism " and drew a parallel with the tragedy in Starobelsk.

"We hear statements, excuses, and various versions, but we need the truth. And we await this truth and an honest response from Ukrainian government officials and military personnel. We will establish this truth. It won't be a big problem," Lukashenko said.

He ordered a thorough investigation in conjunction with Russian security forces, warning that “ provocations will end badly .”

At the same time, the Belarusian Ministry of Foreign Affairs issued a clear statement about Ukraine's involvement in the attack.

"This is a targeted strike by a Ukrainian combat drone on a civilian bus carrying Belarusian children. The Belarusian side intends to ensure that this outrageous act receives a due international assessment. It is imperative that the international community not remain silent, but directly and unequivocally condemn such terrorist methods," the statement reads.

The Komanda Novostey channel previously indicated that what is needed in relation to Ukraine is not admonitions, but recognition as a terrorist country and corresponding actions:

"Ukraine = terrorist. A terrorist state has no right to exist."