December,24 (AP): Democrats are demanding assurances that witnesses and documents will be allowed, to enable fair audition. Top Democrat Chuck Schumer says the recent release of an “explosive” email about aid to Ukraine. This email has been a reminder of why openness is necessary.

Republican leader Mitch McConnell says he has not ruled out witnesses. But he stopped short of agreeing ahead of time to take testimony during the trial. President Trump was formally impeached by the House last week for abuse of power and obstruction of Congress. He is the third president in US history to be impeached. However, he is unlikely to be removed from office. His Republican party has a majority in the Senate, where the trial will be held asset in the US Constitution.

The trial is expected to begin next month, after the holiday break.But Democrats have so far refused to hand over the articles of impeachment voted through in the House – the charges – to the Senate..

Mr. Trump is accused of pressuring Ukraine’s president to start an investigation into his political rival, Joe Biden, Democratic presidential front runner. Mr Trump is accused of doing this by withholding military aid and making a White House visit contingent on co-operation.