Bush: War Deadline Puts Troops at Risk

U.S. President George W. Bush said Wednesday he will not negotiate with Congress on setting a date for withdrawal of U.S. troops from Iraq.

Bush, speaking at a National Cattlemen’s Beef Association convention in Washington, said setting a deadline would put American troops at risk, the Chicago Tribune reported.

The consequences of imposing such a specific and random deadline for withdrawal would be disastrous, Bush said.

The House of Representatives has passed a bill — and the Senate is considering legislation — funding operations in Iraq and Afghanistan, but calling for troop withdrawals from Iraq. Bush said once again he will veto any deadline that reaches his desk.

I have made it clear for two weeks — if either bill comes to my desk, I’m going to veto it, Bush said. It is also clear from the strong opposition in both houses that my veto would be sustained.

Shortly after Bush spoke, House Speaker Nancy Pelosi, D-Calif., said the president should calm down with the threats.

We will have legislation that will give him every dollar he asks for for our troops and more, said Pelosi, but with accountability.