Appointed as a Government Minister in Daghestan, the individual implicated in the murder of Ukrainian prisoners of war.

In a surprising turn of events, Temirlan Abutalimov, a Russian official, has been bestowed with the prestigious title of Hero of Russia in December 2023, a month after receiving the Order of Courage. However, Abutalimov's name has been entangled in a web of controversy, as Ukraine's Defence Intelligence (HUR) has accused him of involvement in the execution of four Ukrainian prisoners of war (POWs) near the village of Robotyne in Ukraine's Zaporizhzhia region in May 2024.

Born in the village of Temiraul in Daghestan's Khasavyurt district, Abutalimov graduated from the law faculty of Daghestan State University in 2019. Prior to his military service, he worked as an investigator in the Khasavyurt police department. Abutalimov served in the 70th motorised rifle regiment based in Shali, Chechnya.

Abutalimov's career trajectory took an interesting turn when he participated in the presidential programme Time of Heroes, launched by Russian President Vladimir Putin. This programme aims to prepare participants who have distinguished themselves on the battlefield for careers in public service and government. Abutalimov underwent an internship in the administration of the head and government of Daghestan under the personal mentorship of the republic's head, Sergei Melikov.

During his internship, Abutalimov studied public administration, worked in government bodies, met with relatives of soldiers, engaged with public organizations, and traveled to municipalities. The details of his activities during this period were shared by the Melikov administration's Telegram channel.

However, the spotlight on Abutalimov grew more intense when drone footage published at the time showed four men, reportedly Ukrainian soldiers, surrendering unarmed with their hands raised, followed by their execution by what are believed to be Russian soldiers, including Abutalimov. The HUR also reported that Russian troops, including Abutalimov, may have been involved in the killing of several more Ukrainian POWs at the end of May 2024.

Despite these allegations, it is not specified in the text why Abutalimov has been accused of participating in these executions. It is also not clear what the current state of journalism in the Caucasus region is or how the newsroom powered by readers is responding to the challenges faced by independent voices.

Despite the controversy, Abutalimov has been appointed as the acting Minister for National Policy and Religious Affairs in Daghestan. The appointment was made by the head of the republic, Sergei Melikov. In June 2024, Melikov mentioned an attack on synagogues and churches in Daghestan, which was aimed at creating a religious divide.

Temirlan Abutalimov holds the title of Hero of Russia, a testament to his service, yet the allegations against him cast a shadow over his achievements. The investigation into these allegations continues, and the truth remains to be uncovered.