French national Martin Ryan has been arrested in Azerbaijan on suspicion of espionage, causing further strain between the two countries. The arrest, ordered by Azerbaijani judicial authorities, has led to diplomatic tensions between Paris and Baku, escalating further as Azerbaijan ordered two French diplomats to leave the country. In response, France declared two Azerbaijani diplomats persona non grata. Martin Ryan's father, Richard, confirmed that the family has spoken to him and stated that Ryan believes his detention is linked to the ongoing tensions between the two nations.

A court-appointed lawyer for Ryan warned that if convicted, the Frenchman could face up to 15 years in prison. The lawyer also claimed that Ryan had been in contact with French individuals who were later revealed to be agents of French intelligence. However, the lawyer stated that Martin is not an agent, but rather a citizen. Furthermore, tensions between France and Azerbaijan have been heightened since last year when Azerbaijan took total control of the Nagorno-Karabakh region in a surprise offensive, sparking international condemnation.

France, in particular, criticized Azerbaijani authorities over the blocking of the Lachin corridor and provided military equipment to Armenia. In addition, France's cyber defense unit uncovered a disinformation campaign originating from Azerbaijan, aimed at undermining Paris's capacity to host the 2024 Olympic Games. The French embassy in Baku has been informed of Ryan's arrest, and the French Foreign Ministry has labeled his detention as arbitrary, calling for his immediate release. The ongoing detainment of Martin Ryan in Azerbaijan has added to the already strained diplomatic relations between the two nations, adding another layer to the ongoing conflict between the two countries.