Frenchman Sentenced in Azerbaijan for Espionage Tied to Military Intelligence

• •Martin Ryan sentenced to 10 years for espionage in Azerbaijan.
• •Ryan accused of collecting military intelligence on Azerbaijan's relations with Turkey and Pakistan.
• •Tensions between Azerbaijan and France are heightened due to France's support for Armenia.

Martin Ryan, a French national, was sentenced to 10 years in prison by an Azerbaijani court for espionage, specifically for gathering military intelligence regarding Azerbaijan's cooperation with Turkey and Pakistan. His co-accused, Azad Mamedli, received a 12-year sentence for treason. Ryan was found guilty of collecting secret information and facilitating contacts between French intelligence and local Azerbaijani citizens. He partially pleaded guilty to some charges but denied any intent to spy. The case reflects ongoing tensions between Azerbaijan and France, particularly due to France's support for Armenia in regional conflicts. Both Ryan and Mamedli were arrested in December 2023, and Ryan will be deported after serving his sentence. The espionage activities reportedly included gathering intelligence on military cooperation and recruitment efforts in Azerbaijan.