"Victory is closed." The body of climber Nagovitsyna remains at the summit.

"Pobeda Peak Is Closed": Climber Nagovitsyna's Body Remains on the Summit

Tashkent, Uzbekistan – Podrobno.uz News Agency.

Attempts to retrieve the body of Russian climber Natalia Nagovitsyna, who died in August 2025 on Pobeda Peak in Kyrgyzstan, have again been unsuccessful. The climbing season has been closed until next year, as harsh weather conditions have made the route inaccessible even for experienced groups.

Dmitry Grekov, head of the South Inylchek Base Camp, reported that several teams attempted to reach the site of her death this year. The closest approach was made by a group reaching an altitude of approximately 6,500 meters. However, the tent where Nagovitsyna remained was still approximately 700 meters above sea level and five kilometers away.

The weather has made further ascents impossible. About half a meter of snow has already fallen at base camp, and higher up, the snow depth reaches approximately two meters.

"All the groups preparing for the ascent have already departed. That's it, Pobeda is closed," Grekov said.

Following the tragedy, climbing regulations are being considered for stricter measures.

Pobeda Peak, at over 7,400 meters, is considered one of the most challenging peaks in the Tien Shan. The bodies of dead climbers are found on its slopes, and evacuation remains extremely challenging due to the altitude, terrain, and weather conditions. Descending from the most inaccessible sections of this mountain has rarely been attempted before, as experts note the high risk of such operations.

The tragedy also prompted a revision of the climbing regulations for Pobeda Peak. A special permit is now required for the route, and access to the summit is planned to be restricted to climbers with the necessary experience.

In the future, Kyrgyzstan intends to introduce additional requirements for ascents of seven-thousanders. These include proof of experience, a route application, and insurance covering the costs of helicopter rescue operations. The new system is initially planned to be tested on Pobeda Peak and then expanded to Lenin Peak and Khan Tengri.

As a reminder, Natalia Nagovitsyna suffered a severe leg injury on August 12, 2025, while descending from the peak. She was left in a tent at an altitude of approximately 7,200 meters with food and warm clothing, awaiting rescue. Several rescue teams attempted to reach her, but were unable to do so due to extreme weather. Italian climber Luca Sinigaglia died during one attempt.

Helicopter evacuation also proved impossible. In early September 2025, rescue efforts were halted, and Nagovitsyna was officially declared missing. Reports later emerged of a possible suicide note she may have left in her tent.