Donald Trump now looks almost certain to be impeached - but the US President will not necessarily be convicted.
Nancy Pelosi has announced she will ask her colleagues to draft articles of impeachment against the president.
Donald Trump is accused of abusing his power by urging the president of Ukraine to investigate his domestic political rival.
Nancy Pelosi cited the historical protections built into the US constitution as she announced her decision.
RNZ's correspondent in Washington is Giles Gibson.
