Daily Compliance Brief — OFAC Issues Updated Russia-Related General License

February 17, 2026

Signal

The US Treasury’s Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) has released an updated General License under the Russia sanctions programme, refining the scope of certain authorised transactions and related compliance conditions.

The revised license adjusts timeframes and/or clarifies the categories of activity permitted without specific authorisation. Such updates are a recurring feature of the Russia regime, reflecting evolving policy objectives and operational realities.

Even where changes appear technical, amendments to General Licenses can materially alter the permissibility of transactions, particularly for institutions facilitating cross-border payments, trade finance, energy-related activity, or wind-down arrangements.

Why it matters

For compliance teams, updated licensing terms require immediate legal interpretation and control recalibration. Transaction filters, payment routing logic, and customer advisories must align precisely with the revised authorisations and any new expiration parameters.

Institutions should reassess exposure to Russia-related clients and counterparties operating under prior license assumptions. Documentation, escalation protocols, and evidence of reliance on General Licenses should be reviewed to ensure defensibility under supervisory or enforcement scrutiny.