Rustam Nabiev, a former Russian soldier who lost both legs in a tragic barracks collapse in 2015, has achieved an extraordinary feat in 2026 by climbing Mount Everest using only his arms.
The incident that led to his disability occurred when his military barracks collapsed while he was asleep, killing several soldiers. Despite the life-changing injury, Nabiev has now become the first person to summit the world’s highest peak without prosthetic limbs.
He successfully reached the 8,848.86-meter summit of Everest during the 2026 spring climbing season in Nepal.
According to Everest Base Camp field coordinator Khim Lal Gautam, Nabiev completed the ascent safely and has begun his descent toward base camp.
Videos from the expedition show him navigating the challenging Khumbu Icefall using only his arms. Reports say he took nearly 15 hours to cross the icefall and reach Camp I, located at around 6,065 meters.
After reaching the summit on May 20 at 8:16 AM Nepal time, Nabiev shared an emotional message on social media, writing: “To those who thought life ended after the fall. Rustam Nabiev, Everest 2026.”
He added, “For the first time in the history of mountaineering, I reached the summit of Everest using only my arms. I dedicate this ascent to everyone watching. As long as there is life in you, fight until the end. It’s worth it.”
He dedicated the achievement to his supporters worldwide, repeating his message of resilience and perseverance.
Khim Lal Gautam confirmed the historic ascent in a statement to Anadolu Agency, saying, “Yes, he successfully summited Everest and is now descending towards base camp.”
The achievement has drawn widespread admiration online, with many praising his determination and strength. One user wrote that Nabiev’s climb proves he is “more enabled than most, both physically and mentally,” while another said the accomplishment was deeply inspiring and emotional.
