find support around its 200-day moving average if it approaches the level.

The weakness in U.S. manufacturing raised concern over the U.S.-China trade war's impact on the economy. The conflict started last year. Since then, China and the U.S. have slapped tariffs on billions of dollars worth of their products. Delegations from Washington and Beijing are due to meet next week in the hope of finding a consensus.

"Bottom line: Elevated uncertainty is threatening economic confidence after September's stock market bounce ran out of steam," said Willie Delwiche, investment strategist at Baird, in a note. "The manufacturing sector continues to weaken, CEO confidence is at its lowest level in a decade and the pace of private sector job growth is slowing."

Stocks briefly added to those losses on Thursday after ISM'sUkraine crisis: No sign of Russia withdrawal, says Nato Published duration 19 May 2014 Related Topics Ukraine conflict

media caption Anders Fogh Rasmussen: "So far we haven't seen any withdrawal at all. I strongly regret that"

Nato and the US say there is no sign of a withdrawal of Russian troops from areas bordering Ukraine.

The Kremlin earlier announced units in the Rostov, Belgorod and Bryansk areas would return to their permanent bases.

Correspondents say removing some of the estimated 40,000 Russian troops could help de-escalate the Ukraine crisis.

Ukrainian government forces continue to clash with pro-Russia separatists who have taken over government buildings in southern and south-eastern Ukraine.

'Firm evidence'

statement from the Kremlin had said: "In connection with the completion of the planned spring phase of military training... at ranges in Rostov, Belgorod