NICOSIA — Squeezed into supporting European Union sanctions against Russia over the invasion of Ukraine, Cyprus is reportedly split over whether to meet an American request to send Russian-made military equipment to Ukraine.

Kathimerini first reported the United States proposal that would see the gear acquire by the Cypriot National Guard going to Ukraine to help fight Russian forces, Cyprus’ Defense Ministry against the idea, the paper said.

The ruling Democratic Rally party supports it and it wasn’t said why President Nicos Anastasiades doesn’t overrule his defense officials although the sticking point is that the deal with Russia forbids sending the weapons to other countries without Russia’s permission and licensing.

It wasn’t explained how that could be if Cyprus bought and owns the equipment but the report said the government initially wanted to meet the US request because it wants Washington to lift an arms embargo.