The invasion of Ukraine by Russia has raised questions about the stability of President Vladimir V. Putin's regime

The recent mutiny led by Yevgeny Prigozhin's mercenary army highlighted the fragility of Putin's hold on power

The United States sees an opportunity in the disarray within Russia to weaken its military effort in Ukraine and reduce its interference in other regions

The armed standoff on the road to Moscow marked the most significant struggle for power in Russia since the early 1990s

Unlike previous episodes, the United States had no preference in the power struggle between Prigozhin and Putin

President Biden chose caution over immediate response, avoiding giving Putin ammunition to claim foreign intervention

The Biden administration focused on studying intelligence and relying on online sources to interpret events in Russia

Concerns about Russia's nuclear arsenal and command and control over the weapons remain high among U.S. officials

The United States has limited influence over events in Russia and should aim to prevent spillover violence and disorder

The events on the ground signify Putin's weakening position and ongoing feuds within the Russian leadership

Prigozhin, once a key lieutenant of Putin, debunked the rationale for the war and challenged Putin's authority publicly