Feds eye sanctions for Russian man tied to Winnipeg company

The federal government is contemplating sanctions against the director of a Russian company that owns the majority of Buhler Industries in Winnipeg.

Konstantin Babkin is one of the directors of Combine Factory Rostselmash Ltd., based in Rostov-on-Don, Russia. That company owns 80 per cent of Buhler Industries, which makes agriculture equipment.

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Babkin is also the co-founder and leader of the Action Party in Russia, one known for its support of the Kremlin (Russianpresident Vladamir Putin, his ministers and staff).

He has been seen publicly encouraging the invasion of Ukraine. At a rally in Moscow earlier this month, Babkin said to a crowd, We should not stop at Crimea!

Manitoba MP James Bezan said Canadas department of foreign affairs has been monitoring Babkins actions and is considering sanctions.

Mr. Babkin has been using incredibly inflammatory language. At this point in time, though, we dont know how close he is to influencing decisions made in the invasion of Crimea, said Bezan.

Bezan said the government is contemplating a travel ban on Babkin and freezing his assets.

Management at Buhler Industries in Winnipeg did not immediately respond to requests for comment.