Putin softens pension reforms after outcry

Russian President Vladimir Putin has softened plans to reform pensions following angry protests and a slump in his approval rating.

He said the retirement age for women would be increased from 55 to 60 instead of to 63. But a five-year increase for men, to 65, would stay.

Mr Putin said the country's working-age population was shrinking, making change essential.

Unions have warned that many will not live long enough to claim a pension.

Russian men have a life expectancy of 66 while for women it is 77, the World Health Organization says.

The issue has seen support for Mr Putin sfall to 64% from 80%, according to VTsIOM state pollster./BBC