Kyrgyzstan to introduce Pobeda Peak climbing permits after Russian climber’s death

A permit system for climbing Pobeda Peak will be introduced in Kyrgyzstan this year, following the death of Russian climber Natalya Nagovitsyna. Federation of Alpinism and Climbing president Eduard Kubatov said the decision came after three years of discussions and was prompted at least in part by global public reaction to the tragedy.

Nagovitsyna injured her leg on August 12, 2025, while descending from the peak at around 7,200 meters. Several rescue attempts failed due to bad weather, and one rescuer died. In late August, rescue efforts were abandoned and she was officially declared missing.

Under the new rules, climbers must have international or local insurance covering helicopter support, a suitable sporting level, and significant mountaineering experience. The federation plans to issue permits to 20 climbers this season. The system will be formalized by a government decree.