A major rescue operation has concluded in Kyrgyzstan, where military pilots evacuated 62 climbers and tourists from the high-altitude peaks of Pobeda and Khan Tengri. The evacuation was prompted by life-threatening conditions, including strong winds and a heightened risk of avalanches that left hundreds stranded.
An international group of climbers had earlier become trapped on Victory Peak, where an Italian citizen died during the descent. A helicopter dispatched by the Kyrgyz Ministry of Defense was forced to make an emergency landing on the slope. Fortunately, the crew and rescuers sustained only minor injuries. Given the extreme altitudes, only military helicopters are capable of operating in the area, prompting authorities to deploy additional forces.
Once weather conditions temporarily improved, two military helicopters conducted six flights, evacuating climbers from various countries, including Germany, the United Kingdom, Russia, China, and Kazakhstan. Some were flown to the Yuzhny Enilchek and Polyana base camps at approximately 5,000 meters, while others were hospitalized in Karakol. Those seriously injured are expected to be transferred to Bishkek for further treatment.
Meanwhile, a 47-year-old Russian climber remains stranded at around 7,000 meters after breaking her leg during the descent. German and Italian climbers provided emergency assistance, including a tent, sleeping bag, and food supplies. Two attempts to evacuate her without professional support failed. One of the rescuers, an Italian climber, succumbed to severe hypothermia and died.
According to the Kyrgyz Ministry of Emergency Situations, the stranded climber has survived for seven days at this extreme altitude.
“She is alive and has been in high-altitude conditions for seven days. Preparations are underway for a rescue operation to transport her,” the Ministry of Defense stated.
The situation remains critical as weather conditions continue to shift rapidly, diminishing the chances of a successful rescue with every passing hour.
