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OFACSanctions / OFACMay 7, 2026

OFAC Formally Publishes Four Russia Sanctions General Licenses (55E, 115C, 13P, 131C)

OFAC has formally published four general licenses under the Russian Harmful Foreign Activities Sanctions Regulations — GLs 55E, 115C, 13P, and 131C — in the Federal Register. Given the breadth of Russia-related sanctions affecting crypto and payments firms, compliance teams must review these GLs carefully to determine permitted activities and ensure controls remain current.

What to do

  • Review the full text of Russia GLs 55E, 115C, 13P, and 131C, determine whether any of your firm's Russia-related transaction activity is affected or newly authorized, and update your Russia sanctions compliance procedures accordingly.

Who this affects

Crypto ExchangeCrypto CustodianMoney Services BusinessPayments CompanyFintech / NeobankBank / Credit UnionBroker-Dealer / RIATrust Company

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Source

Read the official publication

This radar entry is educational and does not constitute legal advice. Summaries are AI-assisted and grounded in the linked official source; always verify against the primary source and consult qualified legal counsel for jurisdiction-specific guidance.

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