In a surprising turn of events, Russian authorities announced the closure of the criminal investigation into the Wagner Group's armed rebellion, choosing not to press charges against any participants, including leader Yevgeny Prigozhin. The Federal Security Service (FSB) stated that the investigation concluded that those involved had "ceased activities directed at committing the crime," effectively ending the legal pursuit of those who challenged President Vladimir Putin's authority.

This decision stands in stark contrast to the Kremlin's usual response to anti-government protests, where opposition figures often face severe penalties and harsh prison conditions. While Putin initially labeled Prigozhin and his troops as traitors, the Kremlin later reversed course, agreeing not to prosecute them after the Wagner forces retreated on Saturday to avert further conflict. The charge of armed mutiny typically carries a sentence of up to 20 years in prison.

Prigozhin's current location remains unknown. Although the Kremlin indicated a deal for Prigozhin to relocate to Belarus, neither he nor Belarusian officials have confirmed his presence. A private jet linked to Prigozhin reportedly landed near Minsk on Tuesday, but it's uncertain whether he was on board.

This short-lived rebellion posed a significant challenge to Putin's two-decade rule. The president addressed the nation in a televised speech, emphasizing stability and control while criticizing the uprising's organizers without directly naming Prigozhin. He commended the Russian people for their unity and the rank-and-file Wagner fighters for preventing further bloodshed.

Prigozhin, in an audio message, defended his actions, mocking the Russian military but denying any intention of a coup against Putin. In a display of authority, the Kremlin released footage of Putin meeting with key security officials, including Defense Minister Sergei Shoigu, whose dismissal Prigozhin had demanded. The Defense Ministry also published a video of Shoigu inspecting troops in Ukraine.

Putin presented Wagner fighters with three options: integrate into the Russian Defense Ministry, leave military service, or go to Belarus. Prigozhin mentioned that Belarusian authorities proposed solutions for the Wagner Group to operate legally, though he offered no specifics.