Trump impeachment articles read out on US Senate floor

charges against Donald Trump were re out Thursday on US Senate floor as historic impeachment trial of US president got underway.

"In his conduct of office of President of United States, and in violation of his constitutional oath... Donald J. Trump has abused powers of presidency," Representative am Schiff said as he began reing from first article of impeachment.

Trump "is impeached for high crimes and misdemears," ded Schiff, who is one of House manrs tasked with prosecuting case against president.

"Using powers of his high office, President Trump solicited interference of a foreign government, Ukraine, in 2020 United States Presidential election," Schiff ded.

With Senate formally accepting two articles of impeachment, Supreme Court Chief Justice John Roberts was to be sworn in at 2:00 pm (1900 GMT) Thursday to preside over trial that will dress Trump's conduct regarding Ukraine.

Roberts n swears in 100 senators, who toger will serve as a court of impeachment for what is expected to be next two weeks.

All 100 senators are required to remain seated -- and silent -- during trial, and Senate Sergeant of Arms, Michael Stenger, issued such a warning at beginning of proceedings.

"Hear ye, hear ye, hear ye," Stenger anunced. "All persons are commanded to keep silent, on pain of imprisonment, while House of Representatives is exhibiting to Senate of United States, articles of impeachment against Donald John Trump, President of United States."

formal proceedings carry deep historical significance, as it marks only third time an impeachment trial has been held for a US president.

"A chill ran down my spine when Schiff said words 'high crimes and misdemears.' Heavy times," tweeted Democrat Senator Chris Murphy after leaving chamber.