Odd to even bother with these formal declarations - as if anyone expects anything more than total barbarism from Russia anyways. Functionally - what does this accomplish, withdrawing from an anti-torture agreement? Why even waste the calories, if you’re Russia. It kind of looks like yet more performative tantrums. OOOh - we’re super serious, guys. You better give us what we want.
Good point. As near as the artcile says, the main thing that changes is them to not comply with inspections of their prisons. Which - who the hell is doing that anyways, and what exactly would you expect Russia to comply with in terms of human rights? Descent into utter madness and total depraved brutality. On balance - you’re probably exactly right. Just performative bluster about how they will be independent from western pussy rules. Even if it’s literally to celebrate unrestrained torutre of their own citizens, who will cheer this as RUSSIA STRONK update of the day.