Moscow, Russia (TEH) – In a significant move that underscores Russia’s changing stance towards the European Union (EU), President Vladimir Putin has submitted amendments to the State Duma that would alter the country’s obligations regarding the notification of martial law or a state of emergency. According to the agency RIA, these amendments would eliminate the need to inform Europe about such critical situations, a departure from previous protocols.
Under the existing laws, Russia was required to notify the EU in the event of martial law or an emergency. The proposed amendments would change this, making only the United Nations (UN) the recipient of such notifications. This shift in policy comes in the wake of Russia’s strained relations with the EU and other Western entities.
Since March 16, 2022, the international obligations imposed on the Russian Foreign Ministry under the convention on human rights have ceased to operate. This follows President Putin’s cancellation of the charter of the Council of Europe and 20 international treaties of the organization in February. Among the canceled agreements were the European conventions on the suppression of terrorism, the protection of human rights, the European Charter of Local Self-Government, and the European Social Charter.
The reasoning behind Russia’s withdrawal from the Council of Europe was attributed to the perceived abuse of the NATO bloc, which, according to Russian authorities, turned the EU into an instrument of anti-Russian policy. The Kremlin has argued that an equal dialogue within the EU has ceased to exist, along with the principles that were foundational to the structure from its inception.
These amendments signify a further distancing of Russia from European oversight and collaboration. It reflects a broader trend of Russia asserting its sovereignty and reshaping its international relationships, particularly with Western entities. The move is likely to provoke discussions and reactions from European leaders, who may view it as a challenge to established international norms and agreements.
The situation also raises questions about the future of human rights protections within Russia, as the country moves away from European conventions that have historically provided a framework for such protections. The international community will be watching closely to see how these amendments are implemented and what they may mean for Russia’s citizens and its standing on the global stage.
