United States President Barack Obama says he is fulfilling his campaign promise to end the war in Iraq.
On 31 August, the American combat mission in Iraq will end and the remaining 50,000 troops will switch to what's called an advise and assist mission.
In a weekly radio address on Saturday, Mr Obama said the United States had brought home more than 90,000 troops since he became president and Iraqis had taken the lead in security operations in many parts of the country.
He said American soldiers will provide training and support to Iraqi forces in the months ahead.
"Our troops will continue to support and train Iraqi forces, partner with Iraqis in counter-terrorism missions, and protect our civilian and military efforts," he said.
"But the bottom line is this: the war is ending. Like any sovereign, independent nation, Iraq is free to chart its own course.
"And by the end of next year, all of our troops will be home."
Mr Obama intends to make a televised address on Tuesday evening from the Oval Office about the troop drawdown.
