OCCSanctions / OFACJuly 31, 2026

Agencies Ease Enforcement for Venezuela Earthquake Humanitarian Transactions

The OCC, Federal Reserve, FDIC, and NCUA issued a joint statement relaxing enforcement posture for financial transactions supporting humanitarian relief and financial stability in Venezuela following recent earthquakes. Compliance officers at banks and fintechs should be aware this may create a temporary, limited pathway for Venezuela-related transactions that would otherwise raise sanctions red flags — but it does not suspend OFAC rules outright, so careful documentation of the humanitarian nexus remains essential.

What to do

Review the full joint statement to understand the precise scope of the enforcement relief, update your Venezuela sanctions screening procedures and exception documentation protocols accordingly, and brief your sanctions team on allowable humanitarian transaction categories.

Who this affects

Bank / Credit UnionMoney Services BusinessPayments CompanyFintech / NeobankTrust Company

Does this affect your program?

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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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