Ronald Reagan Peace Through Strength Act of 2026
- Sponsor
- Rep. Fitzpatrick, Brian K. [R-PA-1]
- Committees
- Intelligence (Permanent Select) Committee (primary)
- Last action
- Oct 22, 2026
Bottom line
The bill aims to strengthen economic pressure on Russia by eliminating loopholes in energy import bans and to solidify intelligence support for Ukraine's defense efforts.
What it actually does
This bill significantly tightens sanctions against Russia by amending the Ending Importation of Russian Oil Act to explicitly prohibit the Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) from issuing waivers or general licenses for importing Russian energy products. It also nullifies a specific license (General License 135) that authorized transactions related to Russian diesel fuel and bans future similar authorizations. Additionally, the bill mandates that the Director of National Intelligence ensure intelligence support, including information, intelligence, and imagery, is provided to the Government of Ukraine for defending or retaking its territory, requiring 24-hour notification to Congress for any interruptions in this support.
Proponents argue
Proponents argue that this bill is a critical step to further isolate Russia economically, cutting off vital revenue streams that fund its aggression in Ukraine. By eliminating waiver authority and nullifying specific licenses, it ensures that sanctions are robust and consistently applied. Furthermore, mandating intelligence support for Ukraine demonstrates unwavering commitment to its sovereignty and provides essential tools for its defense, while congressional notification ensures transparency and accountability in this support.
Opponents contend
Opponents might contend that an absolute prohibition on waivers for Russian energy products could destabilize global energy markets, potentially leading to increased prices for consumers and supply chain disruptions, without necessarily achieving the desired geopolitical outcome. Concerns could also be raised regarding the implications of mandating intelligence sharing, including potential risks to sensitive intelligence sources and methods, or the operational flexibility of intelligence agencies.
The bill is concise and its provisions are clearly stated, allowing for a quick and thorough understanding of its core policy changes.
Section 2(b)
Prohibition on Waivers for Russian Energy Product Importation
This provision amends the existing 'Ending Importation of Russian Oil Act' to explicitly state that the Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) is prohibited from issuing any waivers or general licenses that would allow the importation of Russian energy products. This effectively closes any potential loopholes that might permit the import of Russian oil, gas, or other energy resources into the United States, making the ban absolute.
Supporters argue
Supporters argue this provision is essential to ensure the integrity and effectiveness of sanctions against Russia, preventing any circumvention that could undermine efforts to cut off funding for its war in Ukraine. It sends a clear message of unwavering resolve.
Critics contend
Critics might argue that removing all waiver authority could limit the executive branch's flexibility to respond to unforeseen energy market disruptions or humanitarian needs, potentially causing unintended economic harm to U.S. allies or consumers.
Tradeoffs
The provision balances the desire for absolute economic pressure on Russia against the potential for increased energy costs or supply chain challenges in the U.S. and allied nations.
Section 2(c)
Prohibition on Treasury Expenditures for Sanctions-Violating Agreements
This section prohibits the Secretary of the Treasury from expending any federal funds for the purpose of an agreement that would violate the provisions of the 'Ending Importation of Russian Oil Act' as amended by this bill. This is an enforcement mechanism designed to prevent any federal agency from inadvertently or intentionally funding activities that undermine the ban on Russian energy imports.
Section 3(a) and (b)
Nullification of Russia-Related General License 135 and Future Prohibitions
This provision explicitly nullifies Russia-related General License 135, which previously authorized certain transactions involving the sale, delivery, offloading, and importation of diesel fuel of Russian Federation origin. Furthermore, it prohibits the Secretary of the Treasury from issuing any future licenses that would authorize transactions related to the sale, delivery, or offloading of crude oil or petroleum products from the Russian Federation, thereby closing a specific existing loophole and preventing new ones.
Section 4(2)(A)
Mandated Intelligence Support for Ukraine's Defense
This provision amends the National Security Act of 1947 to mandate that the Director of National Intelligence (DNI) ensure relevant elements of the intelligence community provide intelligence support to the Government of Ukraine. This support includes information, intelligence, and imagery collection, and must be specifically intended or reasonably expected to help Ukraine defend or retake its territory from the Russian Federation, formalizing and strengthening U.S. intelligence assistance.
Section 4(2)(B)
24-Hour Notification for Interruptions in Ukraine Intelligence Support
This provision requires the head of any relevant element of the U.S. intelligence community to submit a notification to the congressional intelligence committees within 24 hours of any interruption in the intelligence support provided to the Government of Ukraine. This ensures timely congressional oversight and awareness of any changes or disruptions in critical assistance to Ukraine.