Donald Trump’s impeachment is a black mark against his presidency of historic proportions, but it does not guarantee his removal from office.

That decision lies in the hands of the US Senate, the other half of the US Congress, which will consider the issue during a blockbuster trial in January.

Unlike in the House of Representatives, where a simple majority vote was enough to pass impeachment, two thirds of senators will need to vote to remove Mr Trump for it to happen.

That means 67 of the 100 senators must back the move. Given there are only 47 Democrats or independents, 20 Republicans would have to support removal, which looks very unlikely.

The trial itself, which has only ever happened for two other US presidents, will be a moment of epic political theatre and major consequence.