US should name date to withdraw from Iraq -Putin

MOSCOW, Oct 18 (Reuters) The United States should name a date to withdraw its forces from Iraq, Russian President Vladimir Putin said today.

''I agree with the US president, I think he is right when he says you have to take the international contingent out only once the leadership of Iraq is able to keep the situation under control itself.

''Where we differ is that he believes a date for withdrawal should not be named,'' Putin said, during a nationwide question and answer session on television.

''It is absolutely unacceptable to keep the occupation force in place in Iraq for eternity.'' REUTERS SKB PM157