US Immigration from Russia

I'm about to start my K-1 journey, but after doing some reading here it seems like doing a CR-1 may be better, faster, easier. It's my understanding under "'normal" circumstances a K-1 gets my significant other here quicker, but with Covid, and the hassles after she gets here (AoS, SS, etc.), would it be a better choice to just get married now, and file for a CR-1? If it matters, she lives in Russia.

I know no one has a crystal ball, but just seeking advice from those that know much more about this process than me. I have read a few posts from people who got K-1s, but afterwards, wished they had gotten a CR-1. Opinions please.

Hello what is the current opportunity to have a friend come visit me from Russia on a tourist visa? Is it more or less likely now that there are new Covid Restrictions. I understand that people with current tourist visas can now come to the USA. But how about a person without a current one?

And what is the likelihood of them getting approved for a US tourist VISA? Or is it a situation where the State Department is not even accepting applications?

Thanks,