> Now, I'll admit, I'm not REALLY well educated in Russians

See www.russiantortoise.org

> However, it seems to me that he should not be hibernated since he is still in a bad state.

You are ABSOLUTELY **correct!!!** He should be in the best of health for at least a year before hibernation is attempted.
Many folks in the States have Russian breeding colonies that have never been hibernated.
Keep him warm with an appropriate temperature gradient and lights on 12-14 hours per day.
If he's improving from his previous, rather horrific care, keep on keeping on! You're doing great!
Best of luck to you both!
Pat