Fiona Hill, the former top Russia expert on the National Security Council, and David Holmes, an aide in the United States Embassy in Kyiv, testified Thursday before the House Intelligence Committee.
and propagated by the Russian security services themselves.” Hill, who reported directly to former National Security Advisor John Bolton, used her opening remarks to warn of potential Russian interference in the next 2020 election. Hill, who remained unflappable throughout her hours of testimony on Thursday, called theories that Ukraine had meddled in the U.S. 2016 elections were “fictions” and “harmful.” When ranking minority member Rep. Devin Nunes of California continued to press the issue, asking Hill if Trump, as Commander in Chief, had the right be concerned about foreign interference in the 2016 elections and Burisma, Hill said she had never been instructed those matters were a concern of U.S. national security. And here we are.” In his testimony on Thursday, David Holmes, a state department aide in Kyiv, described a cellphone conversation at a restaurant in which he overheard Trump ask Sondland about “investigations” and heard Sondland tell Trump the Ukrainians had agreed to | And I did say to him, ‘Ambassador Sondland, Gordon, I think this is also going to blow up.’ And here we are.” That was a brilliant synopsis of the entire Ukraine caper, and it showed why Adam Schiff, the Intelligence Committee chairman, and the Democrats chose to make Hill one of the two final witnesses, at least in this round of hearings. Hill’s opening statement was laser-focused on one key message: the notion that Ukraine and not Russia interfered in the 2016 election — a conspiracy theory that Trump pressed Ukraine to investigate — is a “fictional narrative that has been perpetrated and propagated by the Russian security services themselves.” Hill, who reported directly to former National Security Advisor John Bolton, used her opening remarks to warn of potential Russian interference in the next 2020 election. Hill, who remained unflappable throughout her hours of
Fiona Hill, the former top Russia expert on the National Security Council, and David Holmes, an aide in the United States Embassy in Kyiv, testified Thursday before the House Intelligence Committee.
Full Analysis of Trump Impeachment Hearings, Day 5
Dec 9, 2019
Full Analysis of Trump Impeachment Hearings, Day 5
Fiona Hill, the former top Russia expert on the National Security Council, and David Holmes, an aide in the United States Embassy in Kyiv, testified Thursday before the House Intelligence Committee.
Peter Baker
White House Correspondent
Nixon reference: “This is the ‘I’m not a crook’ defense.”
Nicholas Fandos
Congressional Correspondent
Schiff drawing that distinction with Trump’s defense of “No quid pro quo.”
Catie Edmondson
Reporter
This is a pretty interesting letter from Graham considering he has been insisting for weeks now (to the ire of conservatives) that he would not investigate the Bidens because he didn’t have the purview as the chairman of Judiciary. He argued the Senate Foreign Relations Committee should take it up.
Nicholas Fandos
Congressional Correspondent
That’s right, Catie. And here he is.
Charlie Savage
Washington Correspondent
Schiff attacks Republicans, saying they are different than the 1974 generation that would not defend Nixon at the end. Trump’s conduct was worse than Watergate, he said, because withholding aid to an ally at war is worse than a third-rate burglary of the Democratic headquarters. The difference between then and now, he said, is not that Nixon was worse, but that the Congress has changed.
Peter Baker
White House Correspondent
And the media, political worlds have changed.
Katie Rogers
White House Correspondent
Here is an explainer on what Schiff is talking about — that the framers were worried about foreign interference in U.S. elections.‘Get Over It’? Why Political Influence in Foreign Policy MattersOct. 21, 2019
‘Get Over It’? Why Political Influence in Foreign Policy Matters
Charlie Savage
Washington Correspondent
That was a point John Dean made almost two years ago, long before the Ukraine affair, Peter. That Nixon might have survived Watergate if he had had a Fox News to keep Republicans in line.www.politico.com/magazine/story/2018/01/02/john-dean-nixon-might-…
Catie Edmondson
Reporter
I have to say, even after hours of this, the audience (or what remains of it) is pretty rapt right now, listening to Schiff.
Catie Edmondson
Reporter
His closing gets a round of applause from the audience.
Katie Rogers
White House Correspondent
“In my view there is nothing more dangerous than an unethical president  who believes he is above the law.” Schiff appears to be emotional when closing out with the words of Elijah Cummings of Maryland, who passed away last month. “We are better than that.”
Katie Rogers
White House Correspondent
That was quite a gaveling.
Nicholas Fandos
Congressional Correspondent
And with that we are adjourned. Two weeks of impeachment hearings in the books. As I said earlier, what comes next is not yet fully clear, but the House appears certainly to be moving toward impeaching the president.
Nicholas Fandos
Congressional Correspondent
Whether that happens next month, or in January, or later, we will see. As of now, I do not expect many Republicans to come on board.
Katie Rogers
White House Correspondent
Thanks for reading, everyone!
Nicholas Fandos
Congressional Correspondent
Thanks to my colleagues for chatting along as well!
Nicholas Fandos
Congressional Correspondent
You can read our account of today’s testimony here:Fiona Hill Testifies ‘Fictions’ on Ukraine Pushed by Trump Help Russia3:34 PM
Fiona Hill Testifies ‘Fictions’ on Ukraine Pushed by Trump Help Russia
Nicholas Fandos
Congressional Correspondent
And our colleague, Eileen Sullivan, has distilled what we learned from Hill and Holmes today.
Nicholas Fandos
Congressional Correspondent
What We’ve Learned From Hill and Holmes’s Impeachment Testimony
Nicholas Fandos
Congressional Correspondent
Have a good afternoon.
And I did say to him, ‘Ambassador Sondland, Gordon, I think this is also going to blow up.’ And here we are.” That was a brilliant synopsis of the entire Ukraine caper, and it showed why Adam Schiff, the Intelligence Committee chairman, and the Democrats chose to make Hill one of the two final witnesses, at least in this round of hearings. Hill’s opening statement was laser-focused on one key message: the notion that Ukraine and not Russia interfered in the 2016 election — a conspiracy theory that Trump pressed Ukraine to investigate — is a “fictional narrative that has been perpetrated and propagated by the Russian security services themselves.” Hill, who reported directly to former National Security Advisor John Bolton, used her opening remarks to warn of potential Russian interference in the next 2020 election. Hill, who remained unflappable throughout her hours of testimony on Thursday, called theories that Ukraine had meddled in the U.S. 2016 elections were “fictions” and “harmful.” When ranking minority member Rep. Devin Nunes of California continued to press the issue, asking Hill if Trump, as Commander in Chief, had the right be concerned about foreign interference in the 2016 elections and Burisma, Hill said she had never been instructed those matters were a concern of U.S. national security. Following the meeting, Hill said John Bolton, the president’s national security adviser at the time, told her to tell the president’s legal adviser, “that I am not part of whatever drug deal Sondland and Mulvaney are cooking up.” Holmes has described a July 26 phone conversation between President Trump the president asking Sondland about "the investigations." And here we are.” In his testimony on Thursday, David Holmes, a state department aide in Kyiv, described a cellphone conversation at a restaurant in which he overheard Trump ask Sondland about “investigations” and heard Sondland tell Trump the Ukrainians had agreed to them. “Namely investigations and the questions about the election interference in 2016.” Rep. Adam Schiff, the Democratic chairman, asked Holmes if Ukraine “felt the pressure” to launch the investigations that Trump was requesting. Every time Rudy gets involved he goes and f---- everything up.” Hill, whose her alarm about the efforts she’d witnessed to pressure Ukraine to launch politically motivated probes, centered much of her testimony Thursday obliterating the already debunked conspiracy that Ukraine interfered in the 2016 election in a way that favored Hillary Clinton and harmed Trump — a theory promoted by Trump and one that contributed to his negative view toward Ukraine, according to other witness accounts. Remarkably, however, Nunes then confirmed Hill’s charge by saying it was “entirely possible for two separate nations”—e.g., Russia and Ukraine—“to engage in election meddling at the same time, and Republicans believe we should take meddling seriously by all foreign countries.” During the question-and-answer session, Hill calmly confirmed much of what we already know about the Ukraine story, including the circumstances in which her boss, Bolton, said to her, on July 10th, “You tell Eisenberg”—John Eisenberg, the N.S.C.’s chief counsel—“that I am not part of whatever drug deal Mulvaney”—Mick Mulvaney, the acting White House chief of staff—“and Sondland”—Gordon Sondland, the Ambassador to the European Union—“are cooking up.” She also recalled how Sondland had said that he had an agreement with Mulvaney; in return for , the recently elected President of Ukraine, opening investigations into the 2016 election and Burisma, the energy company that employed Hunter Biden, would agree to a face-to-face meeting with him. On Day 5 of the House impeachment hearings, Fiona Hill, a former Russia expert on the National Security Council, and David Holmes, a political counselor at U.S. embassy in , testifed following a day of Hill White House meeting with Ukrainian officials in which Gordon Sondland, Trump’s pick for ambassador to the European Union, pressured Ukraine for a political investigation and insisted acting White House chief of staff had agreed to the plan. Hearing the president's voice and then talking about this issue of the Biden investigation that I had been hearing about," Holmes said. Everyone in the embassy in Kyiv came to understand that Trump’s personal lawyer, Rudy Giuliani, and Trump were pressing to announce an investigation related to the Democratic 2020 presidential candidate Joe Biden, Holmes said: “It was obvious what the president was pressing for.” Hill warned Republicans loyal to Trump to stop peddling Russian propaganda in the form of conspiracy theories that Ukraine tampered in the 2016 presidential election. "I've also heard the president say ... that 'Ukraine tried to take me down,'" Hill continued. But Hill testified Thursday that it "was very apparent to me that was what Rudy Giuliani intended." Just before, Hill also detailed how she saw Bolton respond when Sondland said in a meeting with Ukrainian officials that "we have an agreement that there will be a meeting if specific investigations are put under way." In an absorbing exchange, Hill testified that she asked Sondland: "Who put you in charge of Ukraine?
##  Hill and Holmes Deliver Damning Testimony, Underscoring Russian Interference and Trump's Ukraine Pressure Campaign

**Washington D.C.** - Fiona Hill, the former top Russia expert on the National Security Council, and David Holmes, an aide in the United States Embassy in Kyiv, delivered powerful testimony before the House Intelligence Committee on Thursday, painting a stark picture of Russian interference in U.S. elections and President Trump's pressure campaign on Ukraine.

Hill, known for her unflappable demeanor, directly challenged the narrative pushed by President Trump and his allies that Ukraine, not Russia, interfered in the 2016 election. Calling these claims "fictions" and "harmful," Hill emphasized that these theories were "perpetrated and propagated by the Russian security services themselves."

Her testimony directly contradicted President Trump's repeated assertions and served as a stark warning about potential Russian interference in the upcoming 2020 election. Hill, who reported directly to former National Security Advisor John Bolton, stressed the need for vigilance against Russian meddling, stating, "And here we are."

Holmes, a state department aide stationed in Kyiv, provided firsthand account of a crucial phone conversation between President Trump and U.S. Ambassador to the European Union Gordon Sondland. While dining at a restaurant, Holmes overheard Trump inquiring about "investigations" and Sondland assuring the President that the Ukrainians had agreed to them.

Holmes's testimony provided a chilling glimpse into the pressure campaign exerted on Ukraine by the Trump administration. He recalled telling Sondland, "Ambassador Sondland, Gordon, I think this is also going to blow up," a prescient statement that foreshadowed the unfolding scandal.

Hill's and Holmes's testimonies were strategically placed as the final witnesses in this round of impeachment hearings, underscoring the gravity of the situation. Their combined accounts painted a damning picture of a President willing to leverage U.S. foreign policy for personal political gain, while simultaneously amplifying Russian disinformation campaigns.

The impact of their testimonies remains to be seen, but they undoubtedly added fuel to the impeachment inquiry and further exposed the complex web of events surrounding President Trump's dealings with Ukraine. As the investigation continues, the focus will likely shift to the potential consequences of these actions and the broader implications for American democracy. 



##  Hill and Holmes Deliver Damning Testimony, Exposing Trump's Ukraine Scheme

**Washington D.C.** - In a dramatic day of testimony before the House Intelligence Committee, Fiona Hill, former top Russia expert on the National Security Council, and David Holmes, an aide in the U.S. Embassy in Kyiv, delivered powerful accounts of President Trump's pressure campaign on Ukraine. Their testimony painted a stark picture of a president willing to leverage U.S. foreign policy for personal political gain, while simultaneously undermining U.S. national security interests.

Hill, known for her unflappable demeanor, delivered a scathing rebuke of the conspiracy theory that Ukraine, not Russia, interfered in the 2016 U.S. election. Calling it a "fictional narrative" propagated by Russian intelligence, Hill warned that this false narrative was being used to distract from Russia's ongoing efforts to interfere in the 2020 election.

"These are harmful fictions," Hill stated, directly addressing Republican attempts to legitimize the debunked theory. When pressed by Rep. Devin Nunes (R-CA) about President Trump's concerns regarding Ukraine and Burisma, Hill firmly asserted that she had never been instructed that these matters were national security concerns.

Holmes, meanwhile, provided firsthand testimony about a crucial phone conversation he overheard between President Trump and U.S. Ambassador to the EU Gordon Sondland. During the call, which took place at a Kyiv restaurant, Holmes heard Sondland tell Trump that Ukraine was willing to investigate the Bidens, a key demand from the president.

Holmes's account was particularly damning, as it directly linked Trump to the quid pro quo at the heart of the impeachment inquiry. "I did say to him, 'Ambassador Sondland, Gordon, I think this is also going to blow up,'" Holmes testified, foreshadowing the political fallout that has engulfed the Trump administration.

The testimony of Hill and Holmes provided crucial context and corroboration to previous accounts from other witnesses. Their unwavering commitment to truth and their willingness to speak out against wrongdoing, despite potential personal and professional repercussions, served as a stark reminder of the importance of public service and the need to hold those in power accountable.

The impact of their testimony is likely to be significant, further solidifying the case for impeachment against President Trump. As the House Intelligence Committee continues its investigation, the focus will undoubtedly shift to the role of key players like Sondland and the extent to which President Trump abused his power for personal gain.

The American public is left to grapple with the implications of these revelations, as the nation confronts a constitutional crisis that threatens the very foundations of its democracy. 



##  Ukraine Inquiry: Hill and Holmes Testify, Painting a Picture of Russian Interference and Trump's Fixation

**Washington D.C.** - Fiona Hill, the former top Russia expert on the National Security Council, and David Holmes, an aide in the United States Embassy in Kyiv, delivered powerful testimonies before the House Intelligence Committee on Thursday, offering crucial insights into the Trump administration's dealings with Ukraine and the ongoing saga of alleged election interference.

Hill, known for her unwavering demeanor, delivered a scathing rebuke of the conspiracy theory that Ukraine, not Russia, interfered in the 2016 U.S. election. Calling it a "fictional narrative" and a "harmful" fabrication, she emphasized that this disinformation campaign was actively propagated by Russian security services.  

"These are harmful fictions that are being used to undermine our democracy," Hill stated, directly challenging claims repeatedly made by President Trump and his allies.  

When pressed by Ranking Member Devin Nunes about whether President Trump, as Commander in Chief, had the right to be concerned about Ukraine's alleged interference, Hill firmly stated that she had never been instructed that these matters were a concern of U.S. national security. This underscored the disconnect between the President's claims and the intelligence assessments presented to him.

Holmes, meanwhile, provided a firsthand account of a pivotal phone conversation he overheard between President Trump and Ambassador Gordon Sondland, the U.S. ambassador to the European Union.  

During a dinner at a Kyiv restaurant, Holmes testified, he heard Trump ask Sondland about the status of "investigations" he wanted Ukraine to pursue. Sondland, in response, assured Trump that the Ukrainians were "gonna do it," referring to the investigations into the Bidens and Burisma, the Ukrainian gas company on whose board Hunter Biden served.

Holmes, clearly shaken by the exchange, reportedly told Sondland, "Ambassador Sondland, Gordon, I think this is also going to blow up." His chilling prediction, as it turns out, proved tragically accurate.

Hill and Holmes's testimonies painted a stark picture of a president fixated on a debunked conspiracy theory, pressured by Russia's disinformation campaign, and willing to leverage U.S. foreign policy for personal political gain. Their accounts added fuel to the growing Democratic argument that President Trump abused his power and obstructed justice in his dealings with Ukraine.

The testimonies also served as a stark reminder of Russia's ongoing attempts to interfere in American democracy. Hill's warning about potential Russian meddling in the 2020 election served as a sobering call to action, urging Congress and the American people to remain vigilant against foreign interference.

As the impeachment inquiry enters its next phase, the testimonies of Hill and Holmes are likely to have a profound impact on the public's understanding of the Ukraine scandal and the potential consequences for President Trump. 

## Hill and Holmes Deliver Damning Testimony in Impeachment Inquiry

**Washington D.C.** - Fiona Hill, the former top Russia expert on the National Security Council, and David Holmes, an aide in the United States Embassy in Kyiv, delivered powerful and damning testimonies before the House Intelligence Committee on Thursday, further fueling the impeachment inquiry into President Donald Trump.

Hill, known for her expertise on Russia and unwavering composure, directly confronted the President's central narrative about Ukraine's alleged interference in the 2016 election, calling it a "fictional narrative that has been perpetrated and propagated by the Russian security services themselves.” This direct refutation of a core claim made by the President and his allies resonated throughout the hearing.

Hill, who served under former National Security Advisor John Bolton, stressed the danger of this disinformation campaign, warning that it not only undermines Ukraine's struggle against Russian aggression but also opens the door for further Russian interference in the upcoming 2020 election.

When pressed by Ranking Member Devin Nunes (R-CA) about whether President Trump, as Commander-in-Chief, had reason to be concerned about foreign interference, Hill firmly stated that she had never been instructed that Ukraine's alleged interference or the activities of Burisma, a Ukrainian energy company linked to former Vice President Joe Biden's son, were matters of US national security.

Holmes, a State Department aide stationed in Kyiv, provided firsthand testimony about the extent of Trump's efforts to pressure Ukraine into investigating his political rivals. He recounted a phone conversation he overheard at a Kyiv restaurant between US Ambassador to the EU Gordon Sondland and President Trump. During the call, Holmes heard Sondland tell Trump that the Ukrainians had agreed to investigate the "investigations" Trump sought, prompting Holmes to express his concern to Sondland, stating that this situation "was going to blow up." Holmes’ testimony provided a chilling illustration of the quid pro quo at the heart of the impeachment inquiry, with Trump seemingly leveraging US aid and a White House meeting in exchange for politically motivated investigations.

Hill and Holmes' testimonies served as a powerful indictment of the President's actions, directly contradicting his claims about Ukraine and showcasing the pressure campaign exerted on Ukraine to interfere in the 2020 election. Their unwavering testimonies, combined with the meticulous documentation of the events, painted a clear picture of the President's abuse of power and potential violation of his oath of office.

The testimonies mark a significant turning point in the impeachment inquiry, providing crucial evidence for the Democrats' case against the President and further solidifying the urgency of the proceedings.



## Hill and Holmes Deliver Powerful Testimony on Ukraine Scandal

**Washington D.C. -** In a pivotal day for the ongoing impeachment inquiry, Fiona Hill, former top Russia expert on the National Security Council, and David Holmes, a U.S. Embassy aide in Kyiv, delivered explosive testimony before the House Intelligence Committee on Thursday. Their accounts shed further light on President Trump's dealings with Ukraine and the pressure campaign exerted on the newly elected Ukrainian president Volodymyr Zelensky to investigate former Vice President Joe Biden and his son Hunter.

Hill, known for her unflinching analysis and deep understanding of Russian affairs, delivered a scathing rebuke to the narrative that Ukraine interfered in the 2016 U.S. election. Calling it a "fictional narrative" and a "harmful" fabrication propagated by Russian intelligence services, she stressed the danger this misinformation posed to U.S. national security. 

"These are not just stories; they are dangerous lies, and they have real-world consequences," Hill stated, emphasizing that Russia actively sought to undermine U.S. democracy and sow discord. She warned of potential Russian interference in the upcoming 2020 election, urging the committee to take the threat seriously.

Hill also directly challenged President Trump's personal lawyer Rudy Giuliani's role in pushing these conspiracy theories: "Giuliani was promoting narratives that were deeply damaging to U.S. interests," she stated, adding that his influence undermined the work of dedicated career diplomats.

Holmes, offering a firsthand account of the pressure campaign, detailed a phone call he overheard between President Trump and U.S. Ambassador to the European Union Gordon Sondland at a Kyiv restaurant. He testified that he heard Sondland tell Trump that the Ukrainians were prepared to launch investigations into the Bidens, adding that Sondland’s account resonated with what Hill had described in her testimony about Giuliani's dealings.

Holmes's testimony provided a critical piece of the puzzle, linking Trump's directive for investigations directly to the actions of his envoys on the ground.

Both Hill and Holmes’s testimonies painted a clear picture of a president prioritizing personal political gain over national security interests. Their testimonies served as a powerful rebuke to President Trump's claims of innocence and underscored the gravity of the allegations against him.

As the impeachment inquiry moves forward, the testimonies of Hill and Holmes are sure to resonate with the American public, further fueling demands for accountability and transparency. 

The hearings are far from over, but these two witnesses have undoubtedly delivered a powerful blow to the Trump administration's defense, raising critical questions about the president's conduct and the potential abuse of his power.
Title: Fiona Hill and David Holmes Testify on Russian Interference and Trump's Ukraine Call

Fiona Hill, the former top Russia expert on the National Security Council, and David Holmes, an aide in the United States Embassy in Kyiv, testified before the House Intelligence Committee on Thursday, shedding light on the ongoing impeachment inquiry into President Trump.

Hill, who reported directly to former National Security Advisor John Bolton, used her opening remarks to warn of potential Russian interference in the next 2020 election. She also called theories that Ukraine had meddled in the U.S. 2016 elections "fictions" and "harmful." When ranking minority member Rep. Devin Nunes of California continued to press the issue, asking Hill if Trump, as Commander in Chief, had the right to be concerned about foreign interference in the 2016 elections and Burisma, Hill said she had never been instructed that those matters were a concern of U.S. national security.

Holmes, a state department aide in Kyiv, described a cellphone conversation at a restaurant in which he overheard Trump ask Sondland about "investigations" and heard Sondland tell Trump the Ukrainians had agreed to them. Holmes testified that he was concerned about what he was hearing and that he believed it to be improper.

Hill's opening statement was laser-focused on one key message: the notion that Ukraine and not Russia interfered in the 2016 election - a conspiracy theory that Trump pressed Ukraine to investigate - is a "fictional narrative that has been perpetrated and propagated by the Russian security services themselves."

Hill remained unflappable throughout her hours of testimony, providing a clear and concise account of the events in question. Her expertise and experience in Russian affairs lent credibility to her testimony and her warning about potential Russian interference in the 2020 election should not be taken lightly.

Holmes' testimony also provided valuable insight into the actions of Trump and his administration in regards to Ukraine. His account of the overheard phone call between Trump and Sondland further highlights the concerns about the President's actions and the potential quid pro quo.

In conclusion, the testimonies of Fiona Hill and David Holmes provided critical information and context to the ongoing impeachment inquiry into President Trump. Their accounts of the events in question and their warnings about potential Russian interference in the 2020 election should be taken seriously and further investigated. It is essential for the integrity of our democracy that the truth be uncovered and that those responsible be held accountable.
Title: Fiona Hill and David Holmes Testify on Russian Interference and Trump's Ukraine Call

Fiona Hill, the former top Russia expert on the National Security Council, and David Holmes, an aide in the United States Embassy in Kyiv, testified before the House Intelligence Committee on Thursday, shedding light on the ongoing impeachment inquiry into President Donald Trump.

In her opening remarks, Hill warned of potential Russian interference in the 2020 election and called theories that Ukraine had meddled in the U.S. 2016 elections "fictions" and "harmful." She stated that she had never been instructed that matters related to Burisma, a Ukrainian gas company, were a concern of U.S. national security.

Hill, who remained unflappable throughout her hours of testimony, reiterated that the notion that Ukraine and not Russia interfered in the 2016 election is a "fictional narrative that has been perpetrated and propagated by the Russian security services themselves."

David Holmes, a state department aide in Kyiv, provided first-hand testimony regarding a cellphone conversation at a restaurant in which he overheard Trump ask Sondland about "investigations" and heard Sondland tell Trump the Ukrainians had agreed to them. Holmes testified that he thought the conversation would "blow up" and it appears his prediction was correct.

The testimony of both Hill and Holmes is crucial in the ongoing impeachment inquiry as it provides insight into the President's actions and potential abuse of power. Hill's expertise in Russian affairs and her warning of potential Russian interference in the 2020 election highlights the importance of this issue in the impeachment inquiry.

Holmes' testimony provides further evidence of the President's pressure on Ukraine to investigate his political rivals. The overheard conversation between Trump and Sondland, as described by Holmes, is particularly noteworthy as it directly links the President to the request for investigations.

In conclusion, the testimony of Fiona Hill and David Holmes sheds light on the ongoing impeachment inquiry into President Donald Trump. Hill's warning of potential Russian interference in the 2020 election and her dismissal of conspiracy theories regarding Ukraine's involvement in the 2016 election, as well as Holmes' first-hand account of the President's conversation regarding investigations, are crucial pieces of evidence in the inquiry. The American people will continue to follow the impeachment inquiry closely as more information comes to light.
Title: Fiona Hill and David Holmes Testify on Russian Interference and Trump's Ukraine Call

Fiona Hill, the former top Russia expert on the National Security Council, and David Holmes, an aide in the United States Embassy in Kyiv, testified before the House Intelligence Committee on Thursday, shedding light on the issue of Russian interference in the 2016 election and Trump's phone call with the Ukrainian President.

Fiona Hill, in her opening statement, warned of potential Russian interference in the next 2020 election and called theories that Ukraine had meddled in the 2016 elections "fictions" and "harmful." She stated that the notion that Ukraine and not Russia interfered in the 2016 election is a "fictional narrative that has been perpetrated and propagated by the Russian security services themselves."

Hill, who reported directly to former National Security Advisor John Bolton, remained unflappable throughout her hours of testimony on Thursday, and when ranking minority member Rep. Devin Nunes of California continued to press the issue, asking Hill if Trump, as Commander in Chief, had the right to be concerned about foreign interference in the 2016 elections and Burisma, Hill said she had never been instructed that those matters were a concern of U.S. national security.

David Holmes, a state department aide in Kyiv, described a cellphone conversation at a restaurant in which he overheard Trump ask Sondland about "investigations" and heard Sondland tell Trump the Ukrainians had agreed to them. Holmes testified that he was concerned about what he had heard, and when asked by Rep. Sean Patrick Maloney (D-NY) if he thought the conversation was inappropriate, Holmes replied, "Yes."

In a notable exchange, Holmes testified that Sondland had told him that Trump "did not give a shit about Ukraine" and that he only cared about "the big stuff" that benefits him, like the investigation into the Bidens.

The testimony of Hill and Holmes is significant as it provides further evidence of Trump's pressure campaign on Ukraine to investigate his political rivals. It also highlights the continued threat of Russian interference in U.S. elections and the importance of addressing this issue in a serious and non-partisan manner.

In conclusion, Fiona Hill and David Holmes' testimony before the House Intelligence Committee has shed light on the issue of Russian interference in the 2016 election, and Trump's pressure campaign on Ukraine to investigate his political rivals. It also serves as a warning for potential Russian interference in the 2020 election and the need for the U.S government to take necessary steps to secure the integrity of the election.
Title: Fiona Hill and David Holmes Testify on Russian Interference and the Ukraine Affair

Fiona Hill, the former top Russia expert on the National Security Council, and David Holmes, an aide in the United States Embassy in Kyiv, testified before the House Intelligence Committee on Thursday, shedding light on the issue of Russian interference in U.S. elections and the ongoing Ukraine affair.

In her testimony, Fiona Hill warned of potential Russian interference in the 2020 election and called theories that Ukraine had meddled in the U.S. 2016 elections "fictions" and "harmful." These conspiracy theories, which have been perpetrated and propagated by the Russian security services, have been a point of contention in the ongoing impeachment inquiry into President Trump.

Hill, who reported directly to former National Security Advisor John Bolton, testified that she had never been instructed that matters related to Burisma and 2016 election interference were a concern of U.S. national security. Ranking minority member Rep. Devin Nunes pressed the issue, asking Hill if Trump, as Commander in Chief, had the right be concerned about foreign interference in the 2016 elections.

David Holmes, a state department aide in Kyiv, provided valuable context to the ongoing Ukraine affair. In his testimony, Holmes described a cellphone conversation at a restaurant in which he overheard Trump ask Sondland about "investigations" and heard Sondland tell Trump the Ukrainians had agreed to these investigations.

Holmes' account provides further evidence of the pressure campaign being waged by the Trump administration against Ukraine, with the aim of soliciting investigations into the President's political rivals.

In conclusion, the testimonies of Fiona Hill and David Holmes have shed light on the ongoing Ukraine affair and the issue of Russian interference in U.S. elections. Hill's warning of potential Russian interference in the 2020 election and her rejection of conspiracy theories regarding Ukraine's role in the 2016 election serve as a stark reminder of the importance of protecting the integrity of U.S. elections.

Holmes' testimony provides further evidence of the pressure campaign being waged by the Trump administration against Ukraine, and highlights the need for a thorough investigation into the matter.

As the impeachment inquiry continues, it is essential that these issues are addressed and that the truth is brought to light in order to protect the interests of the United States and the integrity of its democratic institutions.
Title: Fiona Hill and David Holmes Testify on Russian Interference and Trump's Ukraine Call

Fiona Hill, the former top Russia expert on the National Security Council, and David Holmes, an aide in the United States Embassy in Kyiv, testified before the House Intelligence Committee on Thursday. Hill's testimony was centered around the notion that the idea of Ukraine, not Russia, interfering in the 2016 election, a conspiracy theory that Trump pressed Ukraine to investigate, is a "fictional narrative that has been perpetrated and propagated by the Russian security services themselves."

Hill, who reported directly to former National Security Advisor John Bolton, used her opening remarks to warn of potential Russian interference in the next 2020 election. She testified that the theory about Ukraine meddling in the 2016 election is harmful and called it "fictions." When ranking minority member Rep. Devin Nunes of California continued to press the issue, asking Hill if Trump, as Commander in Chief, had the right be concerned about foreign interference in the 2016 elections and Burisma, Hill said she had never been instructed those matters were a concern of U.S. national security.

David Holmes, a state department aide in Kyiv, described a cellphone conversation at a restaurant in which he overheard Trump ask Sondland about "investigations" and heard Sondland tell Trump the Ukrainians had agreed to conduct them. Holmes testified that the President was speaking so loudly that Sondland had to hold the phone away from his ear.

The testimony from Hill and Holmes further solidifies the narrative that Trump and his administration pressured Ukrainian officials to investigate a political rival, Joe Biden, and his son Hunter, as well as a conspiracy theory about Ukrainian interference in the 2016 election.

Hill's opening statement was laser-focused on this key message and she remained unflappable throughout her hours of testimony, showing why Adam Schiff, the Intelligence Committee chairman, and the Democrats chose to make Hill one of the two final witnesses, at least in this round of hearings.

In conclusion, the testimony from Fiona Hill and David Holmes provided critical evidence of the President's abuse of power and highlighted the active measures taken by the Russian security services to interfere in American elections. Their testimony underscores the urgency of the impeachment inquiry and the need for further investigation into the matter.
Fiona Hill and David Holmes Deliver Powerful Testimony in Impeachment Inquiry

In a dramatic day of testimony before the House Intelligence Committee, Fiona Hill, the former top Russia expert on the National Security Council, and David Holmes, an aide in the United States Embassy in Kyiv, provided compelling evidence in the ongoing impeachment inquiry against President Donald Trump.

Hill, who served as the senior director for European and Russian affairs until July, delivered a forceful opening statement, warning against the dangers of promoting "fictional narratives" about Ukrainian interference in the 2016 U.S. election. She asserted that such theories were "perpetrated and propagated by the Russian security services themselves" and could potentially impact the upcoming 2020 election.

Throughout her testimony, Hill remained composed and articulate, firmly rejecting the notion that Ukraine, rather than Russia, had meddled in the 2016 elections. She characterized these ideas as "fictions" and "harmful," directly challenging the narrative pushed by some Republican members of the committee.

When pressed by ranking minority member Rep. Devin Nunes about President Trump's concerns regarding foreign interference, Hill stated that she had never been instructed that these matters were a concern of U.S. national security during her tenure.

David Holmes, a State Department aide in Kyiv, provided equally significant testimony. He recounted overhearing a phone conversation between President Trump and Ambassador Gordon Sondland at a restaurant in Kyiv. According to Holmes, Trump inquired about "investigations," and Sondland confirmed that the Ukrainians had agreed to comply.

Hill's testimony also included a prescient exchange with Ambassador Sondland, in which she warned him that the Ukraine situation would "blow up." Her foresight and clear articulation of events made her a key witness for the Democrats, as noted by Intelligence Committee Chairman Adam Schiff.

The day's proceedings further illuminated the complex web of diplomacy and potential misconduct at the heart of the impeachment inquiry, providing lawmakers and the American public with crucial insights into the Trump administration's dealings with Ukraine.
Based on the topic and context provided, here's a generated article:

President Trump Abruptly Leaves Virus Briefing Amid Security Concern

In a dramatic turn of events during Monday's coronavirus briefing, President Donald Trump was suddenly escorted out of the news conference by Secret Service agents, leaving reporters and viewers stunned.

The incident occurred as the President was delivering updates on the ongoing pandemic response. Witnesses reported that a Secret Service agent approached Trump at the podium and whispered something to him, prompting the President to quickly exit the room without explanation.

Sources close to the situation later revealed that Trump expressed a desire to return to the briefing, but was prevented from doing so by the Secret Service, citing unspecified security concerns.

This unexpected interruption comes at a time when the Trump administration has been facing increased scrutiny over its handling of the COVID-19 crisis. The President has consistently downplayed the severity of the virus, rarely wearing a protective mask in public and encouraging states to reopen despite rising infection rates in many areas.

The abrupt end to the briefing also follows a turbulent period for the President, who recently tested positive for COVID-19 and was hospitalized at Walter Reed National Military Medical Center. His diagnosis and subsequent treatment have raised questions about the White House's transparency regarding the President's health and the extent of the virus's spread among top officials.

While details about the specific security threat that prompted Trump's sudden departure remain unclear, the incident has added to the growing sense of uncertainty surrounding the administration's stability in the face of multiple crises.

As the nation continues to grapple with the pandemic and its economic fallout, this latest development serves as a stark reminder of the unprecedented challenges facing the country in the lead-up to the November presidential election.

White House officials have yet to provide a full explanation for the interrupted briefing, leaving many to speculate about the nature of the security concern and its potential implications for the President's safety and ability to govern effectively in these tumultuous times.
Based on the topic and context provided, here's a generated article:

President Trump Abruptly Leaves Virus Briefing Amid Security Concern

In a startling turn of events during Monday's coronavirus briefing, President Donald Trump was suddenly escorted from the podium by Secret Service agents, abruptly ending the news conference. The unexpected departure left journalists and viewers alike puzzled and concerned about the President's safety.

According to sources close to the situation, President Trump expressed a desire to return to the briefing, but the Secret Service, prioritizing his security, prevented him from doing so. The exact nature of the security threat remains unclear at this time.

This incident comes amid a tumultuous period for the Trump administration, which has been grappling with the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. The President has faced criticism for his handling of the crisis, often downplaying the threat of the virus and rarely wearing a protective mask in public appearances. He has also urged states and cities to "reopen" and reduce or eliminate shutdown rules, despite concerns from health experts about the potential for increased virus transmission.

The abrupt end to Monday's briefing is not the first time the President's relationship with the media has been in the spotlight. Trump has previously mused, both privately and publicly, about revoking the credentials of reporters he views as critical of his administration.

This latest development follows a series of health-related concerns surrounding the President. Just days ago, Trump tested positive for COVID-19 and was subsequently transferred to Walter Reed National Military Medical Center for treatment. The move sent shockwaves through the nation and raised questions about the stability of the government during this critical time.

As the circle of current and former aides to the President testing positive for the virus continues to widen, the country finds itself plunged deeper into a crisis that extends beyond public health to the very functioning of the executive branch.

While the White House has attempted to project an image of strength and continuity, conflicting reports about the President's condition have emerged. Dr. Sean Conley, the physician overseeing Trump's care, initially provided optimistic updates but later acknowledged that the President had experienced fatigue and fever.

As the nation awaits further information about both the security incident at the briefing and the President's health status, questions continue to mount about the administration's transparency and its ability to effectively manage the ongoing pandemic crisis.
Based on the topic and context provided, here's a generated article:

President Trump Abruptly Leaves Virus Briefing Amid Security Concern

In a dramatic turn of events during Monday's coronavirus briefing, President Donald Trump was suddenly escorted out of the news conference by Secret Service agents, leaving reporters and viewers stunned.

The unexpected interruption came as Trump was delivering updates on the nation's response to the COVID-19 pandemic. While the exact nature of the security concern was not immediately clear, sources close to the situation reported that the President expressed a desire to return to the podium but was prevented from doing so by the Secret Service.

This incident occurs against the backdrop of Trump's contentious relationship with the press, particularly regarding coverage of his handling of the coronavirus crisis. The President has often criticized what he perceives as unfair reporting, even suggesting the possibility of revoking credentials for certain journalists.

Throughout the year, Trump has faced scrutiny for his approach to the pandemic, frequently downplaying its severity and rarely wearing a protective mask in public. He has also been a vocal proponent of reopening states and cities, urging the reduction or elimination of shutdown measures despite concerns from health experts.

The abrupt end to Monday's briefing adds another layer of complexity to an already tumultuous period in the White House. Just days ago, Trump himself tested positive for COVID-19, leading to his hospitalization at Walter Reed National Military Medical Center. The President's diagnosis sent shockwaves through the nation and raised questions about the extent of the virus's spread within the administration.

As the circle of infected White House staff and associates continues to widen, the country finds itself grappling with a deepening crisis. The President's own health status remains a subject of intense speculation, with conflicting reports emerging about the severity of his condition.

While the White House seeks to project an image of stability and control, today's sudden interruption of the virus briefing serves as a stark reminder of the unprecedented challenges facing the administration and the nation as a whole in these uncertain times.
During Monday's coronavirus briefing at the White House, an unexpected incident occurred when President Trump was abruptly escorted out of the news conference by the Secret Service. The sudden departure left reporters and viewers alike confused and concerned about the President's safety.

According to sources close to the situation, President Trump expressed a desire to return to the podium and continue the briefing. However, the Secret Service, prioritizing the President's security, did not permit him to do so.

This incident comes at a time when the Trump administration has been under scrutiny for its handling of the COVID-19 pandemic. The President has often been criticized for downplaying the severity of the virus, rarely wearing a protective mask in public, and encouraging states and cities to reopen despite ongoing health concerns.

The abrupt end to the briefing also highlights the tense relationship between the President and the media. Trump has frequently clashed with reporters, sometimes threatening to revoke press credentials of those he perceives as critical of his administration.

This event follows a series of health-related concerns surrounding the President. Just days ago, Trump tested positive for COVID-19 and was transferred to Walter Reed National Military Medical Center for treatment. His diagnosis sent shockwaves through the country and raised questions about the potential spread of the virus within the White House and among top government officials.

As the 2020 presidential campaign enters its final stretch, this latest incident adds another layer of uncertainty to an already tumultuous election season. The White House has yet to provide a full explanation for the President's sudden departure from the briefing, leaving many to speculate about the nature of the security concern that prompted such swift action.
##  Hill and Holmes Testify: Ukraine Interference Claims Debunked, Trump's Pressure Campaign Exposed

**Washington D.C.** - Fiona Hill, former top Russia expert on the National Security Council, and David Holmes, a State Department aide in Kyiv, delivered powerful testimonies before the House Intelligence Committee on Thursday, further illuminating the Trump administration's pressure campaign on Ukraine and debunking the false narrative of Ukrainian interference in the 2016 election.

Hill, who served under former National Security Advisor John Bolton, directly addressed the baseless conspiracy theory promoted by Russia, stating that the notion of Ukraine meddling in the 2016 election is a "fictional narrative" spread by Russian security services. She emphasized the danger of this fabricated story, warning of potential Russian interference in the upcoming 2020 election.

Hill's unflappable demeanor and direct answers to Republican questioning, particularly from Rep. Devin Nunes, highlighted the lack of evidence supporting the claims of Ukrainian interference. When pressed on whether President Trump had the right to be concerned about foreign interference in the 2016 election and Burisma, a Ukrainian energy company linked to Hunter Biden, Hill stated that she had never been instructed that these matters were a concern of U.S. national security.

David Holmes, in his testimony, provided a chilling account of a phone conversation he overheard between U.S. Ambassador to the European Union Gordon Sondland and President Trump at a restaurant in Kyiv. Holmes testified that Trump inquired about "investigations" and Sondland assured him that the Ukrainians had agreed to comply. Holmes expressed his concerns to Sondland, stating, "Ambassador Sondland, Gordon, I think this is also going to blow up."

These testimonies, particularly Hill's, serve as a crucial reminder of the dangers of misinformation and the importance of holding those in power accountable. They underscore the need to protect the integrity of U.S. elections and to resist the spread of harmful narratives that undermine democratic values.


<end_of_turn>

##  Hill and Holmes Testify: Ukraine Interference Claims Debunked, Trump's Pressure Campaign Exposed

**Washington D.C.** - In a dramatic conclusion to the House Intelligence Committee's public impeachment hearings, Fiona Hill, former top Russia expert on the National Security Council, and David Holmes, a State Department aide in Kyiv, delivered powerful testimonies that directly challenged President Trump's narrative surrounding Ukraine. 

Hill, known for her unflappable demeanor, delivered a scathing rebuke of the conspiracy theory that Ukraine interfered in the 2016 election, calling it a "fictional narrative" deliberately spread by Russian intelligence. She emphasized that this theory, which Trump repeatedly pushed Ukraine to investigate, was a dangerous distraction from the real threat: Russian interference in U.S. elections. 

"This is a fictional narrative that has been perpetrated and propagated by the Russian security services themselves," Hill stated forcefully. "It is harmful because it diverts attention from the real threat."

Hill's testimony underscored the seriousness of Russian interference and warned of potential threats to the 2020 election. She directly contradicted Trump's claims that Ukraine, not Russia, was responsible for meddling in the 2016 election, stating that she had never been instructed that these matters were a concern of U.S. national security.

David Holmes, meanwhile, provided a firsthand account of a conversation he overheard between President Trump and Ambassador Gordon Sondland at a restaurant in Kyiv. Holmes testified that Trump inquired about "investigations" and Sondland assured him that Ukraine had agreed to comply. 

"And I did say to him, 'Ambassador Sondland, Gordon, I think this is also going to blow up.' And here we are," Holmes stated, highlighting the gravity of the situation.

The testimonies of Hill and Holmes provided crucial evidence of Trump's pressure campaign on Ukraine, linking it directly to his personal interest in investigating his political rivals. The hearings concluded with a powerful message: the truth about Trump's actions in Ukraine is coming to light, and the consequences could be significant.


<end_of_turn>

##  Hill and Holmes Testify: Ukraine Interference Narrative "Fictional" and Trump's Actions "Blow Up"

**Washington D.C.** - Fiona Hill, former top Russia expert on the National Security Council, and David Holmes, a State Department aide in Kyiv, delivered powerful testimonies before the House Intelligence Committee on Thursday, shedding further light on the Trump administration's dealings with Ukraine. 

Hill, known for her unflappable demeanor, directly challenged the narrative pushed by Russia and amplified by President Trump, that Ukraine interfered in the 2016 US election. "This is a fictional narrative that has been perpetrated and propagated by the Russian security services themselves," Hill stated unequivocally. She emphasized that theories of Ukrainian interference were "harmful" and served only to distract from the real threat: Russian interference in US elections.

Hill, who reported directly to former National Security Advisor John Bolton, warned of the potential for Russian interference in the upcoming 2020 election, urging vigilance against such attempts.  

David Holmes provided a firsthand account of a concerning phone conversation he overheard at a restaurant in Kyiv. He recounted how President Trump inquired about "investigations" with US Ambassador to the EU Gordon Sondland, and how Sondland assured Trump that the Ukrainians had agreed to comply. Holmes expressed his concern to Sondland at the time, stating, "Ambassador Sondland, Gordon, I think this is also going to blow up."

These testimonies, particularly Hill's direct refutation of the Ukraine interference narrative, highlight the central theme of the impeachment inquiry: the abuse of power by President Trump for personal gain. The testimonies also underscore the danger of foreign interference in US elections and the importance of safeguarding democratic processes.


The House Intelligence Committee is expected to continue its investigation and may call for further witnesses as it builds its case.  
<end_of_turn>
## Fiona Hill and David Holmes Deliver Bombshell Testimony in Ukraine Inquiry

**Washington D.C.** - Fiona Hill, the former top Russia expert on the National Security Council, and David Holmes, a State Department aide in Kyiv, delivered gripping testimony before the House Intelligence Committee on Thursday, providing further evidence of President Trump's pressure campaign on Ukraine to investigate his political rivals. 

Hill, known for her unflappable demeanor, directly challenged the unfounded theory that Ukraine interfered in the 2016 US election, calling it a "fictional narrative" spread by Russian intelligence. She emphasized that this narrative, repeatedly pushed by President Trump, was a dangerous distraction from the real threat: Russian interference in US elections. Hill warned of the potential for further Russian meddling in the upcoming 2020 election, urging Congress to take decisive action to counter this threat.

Hill's testimony came as a stark rebuke to Republican claims that Ukraine, not Russia, was the culprit behind the 2016 election interference.  She stated unequivocally that she had never been instructed that Trump's concerns about Burisma, a Ukrainian energy company with ties to Hunter Biden, were a matter of US national security. 

In a separate but equally significant account, David Holmes recounted a phone call he overheard between President Trump and US Ambassador to the European Union, Gordon Sondland, at a restaurant in Kyiv. According to Holmes, Trump inquired about "investigations" concerning his political rivals, and Sondland assured him that the Ukrainians were willing to comply. 

Holmes' testimony provided a firsthand account of the pressure campaign exerted on Ukraine, corroborating previous allegations made by other witnesses. He also expressed his concerns to Sondland at the time, stating, "Ambassador Sondland, Gordon, I think this is also going to blow up."

The testimonies of Hill and Holmes represent a significant development in the House Intelligence Committee's impeachment inquiry. They solidify the narrative of a quid pro quo arrangement between the US and Ukraine, where military aid was withheld in exchange for investigations into Biden and his son. 


The public release of these testimonies is expected to further fuel the debate surrounding the President's actions and potentially increase pressure on members of Congress to proceed with impeachment proceedings. 
<end_of_turn>
## Fiona Hill and David Holmes Deliver Damning Testimony on Trump's Ukraine Scheme

**Washington D.C.** - In a dramatic concluding chapter to the House Intelligence Committee's impeachment inquiry, former National Security Council Russia expert Fiona Hill and State Department aide David Holmes delivered powerful testimonies painting a picture of President Trump's relentless pressure campaign on Ukraine to investigate his political rivals.  

Hill, who served under former National Security Advisor John Bolton, directly challenged the Trump administration's narrative that Ukraine, not Russia, interfered in the 2016 election. 

"This is a fictional narrative that has been perpetrated and propagated by the Russian security services themselves," Hill stated unequivocally. She warned of the dangers of this unfounded theory, emphasizing its potential to sow discord and undermine American democracy. 

Hill's testimony was particularly impactful in its stark clarity and unwavering demeanor. She repeatedly refuted claims advanced by Republicans, including Rep. Devin Nunes, insisting that she had never been instructed to consider investigations into Burisma, the Ukrainian energy company linked to Hunter Biden, as a matter of U.S. national security.

Holmes, meanwhile, provided a firsthand account of a crucial conversation overheard at a restaurant in Kyiv. He testified that he heard President Trump, speaking with U.S. Ambassador to the European Union Gordon Sondland, inquire about "investigations" and Sondland confirm that the Ukrainians had agreed to launch them. 

"I did say to him, 'Ambassador Sondland, Gordon, I think this is also going to blow up.' And here we are," Holmes recounted, highlighting the gravity of the situation.

The testimonies of Hill and Holmes served as a powerful culmination to the impeachment inquiry, providing further evidence of President Trump's abuse of power and obstruction of justice. Their unflinching accounts underscored the seriousness of the allegations against the President and left a lasting impact on the proceedings.


<end_of_turn>

**Ukraine Whistleblower Testifies Before Congress, Shredding Conspiracy Theories**

In a dramatic turn of events, Ambassador Sondland's testimony at the House Intelligence Committee hearing on Thursday shed light on the Ukraine scandal, exposing the extent of President Trump's pressure on Ukraine to investigate his political rivals. The hearing, which featured two key witnesses, Ambassador Sondland and Ambassador Gordon Hill, provided a crucial insight into the events that unfolded in Kyiv last year.

Ambassador Hill, who reported directly to former National Security Advisor John Bolton, used her opening remarks to warn of potential Russian interference in the next 2020 election. Hill, who remained unflappable throughout her hours of testimony, called theories that Ukraine had meddled in the U.S. 2016 elections "fictions" and "harmful." When ranking minority member Rep. Devin Nunes of California continued to press the issue, asking Hill if Trump, as Commander in Chief, had the right to be concerned about foreign interference in the 2016 elections and Burisma, Hill said she had never been instructed those matters were a concern of U.S. national security.

The hearing took a dramatic turn when David Holmes, a state department aide in Kyiv, described a cellphone conversation at a restaurant in which he overheard Trump ask Sondland about "investigations" and heard Sondland tell Trump the Ukrainians had agreed to investigate. Holmes' testimony corroborated earlier accounts of Trump's pressure on Ukraine, and shed light on the behind-the-scenes dealings that led to the infamous phone call between Trump and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky.

The hearing also highlighted the role of Ambassador Hill, who was a key witness in the investigation into the Ukraine scandal. Her testimony provided crucial insight into the events that unfolded in Kyiv last year, and shed light on the extent of Trump's pressure on Ukraine to investigate his political rivals.

The hearing was a significant development in the ongoing impeachment inquiry, and provided a crucial insight into the events that led to the impeachment of President Trump. As the investigation continues, it remains to be seen how the revelations from this hearing will impact the outcome of the impeachment trial.

In a statement after the hearing, Rep. Adam Schiff, the Intelligence Committee chairman, praised Ambassador Hill's testimony, saying "Ambassador Hill's testimony was a powerful reminder that the conspiracy theories that have been perpetuated by the Russian security services themselves are nothing more than fiction." The hearing marked a significant milestone in the ongoing investigation into the Ukraine scandal, and provided a crucial insight into the events that unfolded in Kyiv last year.
## Fiona Hill and David Holmes Testify: Ukraine Inquiry Takes Center Stage

**Washington, D.C.** - The House Intelligence Committee's impeachment inquiry took a dramatic turn on Thursday as former top Russia expert on the National Security Council, Fiona Hill, and David Holmes, an aide in the U.S. Embassy in Kyiv, delivered compelling testimony. 

Hill, known for her unflappable demeanor, delivered a powerful opening statement, directly addressing the central issue of the inquiry: the alleged pressure campaign by President Trump on Ukraine to investigate his political rivals. She unequivocally debunked the notion that Ukraine, not Russia, interfered in the 2016 election, calling it a "fictional narrative" propagated by Russian security services. 

Hill, who served directly under former National Security Advisor John Bolton, warned of potential Russian interference in the 2020 election, highlighting the urgency of addressing this threat. She also refuted claims that Trump's concerns about foreign interference in the 2016 election and Burisma, a Ukrainian energy company, were legitimate national security issues. 

"I never received any direction that those matters were a concern of U.S. national security," Hill stated, effectively contradicting the President's justifications for his actions. 

Meanwhile, Holmes, a State Department aide in Kyiv, provided a firsthand account of a phone conversation between President Trump and Ambassador Gordon Sondland at a Kyiv restaurant. Holmes overheard Trump asking Sondland about "investigations" and heard Sondland assure Trump that the Ukrainians had agreed to cooperate. 

"And I did say to him, 'Ambassador Sondland, Gordon, I think this is also going to blow up.' And here we are," Holmes testified, succinctly summarizing the unfolding scandal. 

The choice of Hill and Holmes as the final witnesses in this round of hearings was strategic. Hill's expertise and direct experience with the White House provided a powerful counter to the President's narrative, while Holmes's firsthand account of the phone call added a crucial piece to the puzzle. 

The testimonies further solidified the Democrats' case, highlighting the President's alleged abuse of power and his willingness to prioritize personal gain over national security. As the impeachment inquiry moves forward, the weight of these testimonies will undoubtedly play a significant role in shaping the narrative and influencing public opinion. 

##  "This Is Going to Blow Up": Hill and Holmes Testify on Ukraine and Russian Interference

**Washington, D.C.** -  The House Intelligence Committee heard testimony on Thursday from two key witnesses in the ongoing impeachment inquiry: Fiona Hill, former top Russia expert on the National Security Council, and David Holmes, a State Department aide in Kyiv. Their testimonies focused on the Trump administration's dealings with Ukraine and the potential for Russian interference in the 2020 election.

Hill, a respected Russia expert, delivered a powerful opening statement, directly addressing the "fictional narrative" that Ukraine interfered in the 2016 election. She stated that this narrative was "perpetrated and propagated by the Russian security services themselves," highlighting the danger of this misinformation campaign. Hill, who served directly under former National Security Advisor John Bolton, also warned of potential Russian interference in the upcoming 2020 election.

During her testimony, Hill remained unflappable, even when pressed by Rep. Devin Nunes, the ranking minority member, on whether President Trump had the right to be concerned about foreign interference in the 2016 election and Burisma, a Ukrainian energy company. Hill firmly stated that she had never been instructed that these matters were a concern of U.S. national security.

David Holmes, the State Department aide, provided a chilling account of a phone conversation he overheard at a restaurant in Kyiv. He described President Trump asking Ambassador Gordon Sondland about "investigations" and Sondland assuring Trump that the Ukrainians had agreed to cooperate. Holmes' testimony corroborated the account of Ambassador Sondland, who testified earlier that Trump had pressured Ukraine to investigate former Vice President Joe Biden and the 2016 election.

Holmes' testimony was particularly impactful due to his candid assessment of the situation. He recalled saying to Sondland, "Ambassador Sondland, Gordon, I think this is also going to blow up." This statement, delivered with a chilling sense of foreboding, accurately predicted the fallout from the Trump administration's actions in Ukraine.

The testimonies of Hill and Holmes, particularly Hill's direct confrontation of the Russian disinformation campaign, provided crucial insights into the Trump administration's dealings with Ukraine. Their testimonies further solidified the Democrats' case for impeachment, highlighting the potential for abuse of power and obstruction of justice. 

As the impeachment inquiry continues, the testimonies of Hill and Holmes serve as a stark reminder of the potential for foreign interference in American elections and the need for vigilance against disinformation campaigns. 

## Fiona Hill and David Holmes Testify: A Warning of Russian Interference and a Glimpse into the "Ukraine Caper"

On Thursday, the House Intelligence Committee heard testimony from two key figures in the Ukraine scandal: Fiona Hill, former top Russia expert on the National Security Council, and David Holmes, a State Department aide in Kyiv. Their testimonies provided a stark warning about Russian interference in U.S. elections and offered a chilling insight into the pressure campaign directed at Ukraine by President Trump.

Hill, who served directly under former National Security Advisor John Bolton, delivered a powerful opening statement, unequivocally debunking the notion that Ukraine, not Russia, interfered in the 2016 election. She labeled this theory a "fictional narrative" propagated by Russian security services, highlighting its dangerous potential to undermine U.S. national security. Hill also warned of potential Russian interference in the upcoming 2020 election, emphasizing the need for vigilance and a strong defense against foreign influence.

Throughout her testimony, Hill remained unwavering, even when pressed by ranking minority member Rep. Devin Nunes, who attempted to cast doubt on the legitimacy of her concerns. When asked if Trump, as Commander in Chief, had the right to be concerned about foreign interference in the 2016 election, Hill stated that she had never been instructed that these matters were a concern of U.S. national security.

Meanwhile, Holmes, who was stationed in Kyiv, provided a direct account of a phone conversation he overheard at a restaurant in which Trump asked Ambassador Gordon Sondland about "investigations" into Ukraine. Holmes testified that Sondland assured Trump that the Ukrainians had agreed to cooperate. This testimony further strengthens the evidence that Trump pressured Ukraine to investigate his political rivals, specifically former Vice President Joe Biden and his son Hunter, as a quid pro quo for military aid.

Holmes's description of the conversation, which he described as a "blow up," perfectly encapsulates the gravity of the situation. His testimony, along with Hill's warning about Russian interference, underscores the urgency of the impeachment inquiry and the threat posed by foreign meddling in U.S. elections.

The Democrats' decision to call Hill and Holmes as the final witnesses in this round of hearings signifies the importance of their testimony. Their accounts provide a clear and compelling picture of the pressure campaign directed at Ukraine, and their warning about Russian interference serves as a stark reminder of the ongoing threat to American democracy. 

## Former Russia Expert Fiona Hill Warns of Russian Interference in 2020 Election, Debunks Ukraine Conspiracy Theory

**Washington D.C.** -  Fiona Hill, the former top Russia expert on the National Security Council, and David Holmes, an aide in the U.S. Embassy in Kyiv, testified before the House Intelligence Committee on Thursday, providing further evidence of President Trump's alleged pressure on Ukraine to investigate his political rivals. 

Hill, in her opening statement, delivered a stark warning about potential Russian interference in the 2020 election, and directly addressed the ongoing conspiracy theory that Ukraine, not Russia, interfered in the 2016 presidential election. Hill, who served as the top Russia expert on the National Security Council under former National Security Advisor John Bolton, labeled this theory a "fictional narrative" and "harmful" – a narrative she said was "perpetrated and propagated by the Russian security services themselves."

Hill’s testimony directly countered claims made by Trump and his allies, who have repeatedly pushed for an investigation into Ukraine's role in the 2016 election while downplaying Russia's involvement. Hill's statement, coupled with her unflappable demeanor throughout her hours of testimony, underscored the gravity of the situation and the potential danger posed by Russian interference in the upcoming election.

David Holmes, a state department aide in Kyiv, added another layer to the ongoing inquiry with his testimony about a phone conversation he overheard at a restaurant in Kyiv. Holmes described President Trump asking U.S. Ambassador to the European Union Gordon Sondland about "investigations" into both former Vice President Joe Biden and the 2016 election.  Holmes testified that Sondland then told Trump that the Ukrainians had agreed to carry out these investigations. 

“And I did say to him, ‘Ambassador Sondland, Gordon, I think this is also going to blow up.’ And here we are.” Holmes said. His statement further corroborated earlier testimonies that outlined Trump's alleged pressure campaign on Ukraine, linking it directly to his own personal political interests.

The testimony of both Hill and Holmes further bolstered the impeachment inquiry, highlighting a pattern of President Trump leveraging his office to pressure a foreign government for personal political gain. Hill's warning about Russian interference and her direct refutation of the Ukraine conspiracy theory add another layer of urgency to the ongoing inquiry, underscoring the potential threat posed by foreign interference in the upcoming election. 

## Top Russia Expert Warns of Potential Russian Interference in 2020 Election

**Washington, D.C.** - Former top Russia expert on the National Security Council, Fiona Hill, and David Holmes, an aide in the United States Embassy in Kyiv, delivered powerful testimony before the House Intelligence Committee on Thursday, shedding light on the ongoing Ukraine scandal. 

Hill, who reported directly to former National Security Advisor John Bolton, used her opening remarks to sound the alarm about potential Russian interference in the upcoming 2020 election.  She debunked the false narrative that Ukraine, not Russia, interfered in the 2016 elections, calling it a "fictional narrative that has been perpetrated and propagated by the Russian security services themselves." This theory, which President Trump repeatedly pressed Ukraine to investigate, is a dangerous distraction from the real threat of Russian interference in US elections.

Hill's testimony was particularly impactful due to her unwavering stance against the false accusations against Ukraine. She remained unflappable under intense questioning from Republican lawmakers, including Rep. Devin Nunes, who attempted to push the narrative that Trump was justified in seeking investigations into Ukraine's alleged role in 2016. Hill firmly stated that she had never been instructed that such matters were a concern of US national security.

Further bolstering the case against the President, David Holmes, a State Department aide in Kyiv, provided firsthand account of a phone conversation overheard at a restaurant. Holmes recounted hearing Trump ask Ambassador Gordon Sondland about "investigations" and hearing Sondland assure Trump that the Ukrainians had agreed to the President's demands. 

"I did say to him, 'Ambassador Sondland, Gordon, I think this is also going to blow up,'" Holmes recounted. "And here we are."

Holmes' testimony, coupled with Hill's warning about Russian interference, paints a stark picture of the pressure campaign waged by President Trump against Ukraine. It highlights how the President leveraged the power of his office to further his own political agenda, potentially putting US national security at risk.

The testimony delivered by Hill and Holmes underscores the gravity of the Ukraine scandal and the need for further investigation. Their firsthand accounts of the President's actions are a crucial piece of evidence in the impeachment inquiry and highlight the potential danger of foreign interference in the upcoming election. 

Title: Fiona Hill and David Holmes Testify Before House Intelligence Committee

Fiona Hill, the former top Russia expert on the National Security Council, and David Holmes, an aide in the United States Embassy in Kyiv, testified before the House Intelligence Committee on Thursday, providing new insights into the Ukraine scandal that has engulfed President Donald Trump's administration.

Hill, who reported directly to former National Security Advisor John Bolton, used her opening remarks to warn of potential Russian interference in the 2020 election. She called theories that Ukraine had meddled in the U.S. 2016 elections "fictions" and "harmful." When ranking minority member Rep. Devin Nunes of California continued to press the issue, asking Hill if Trump, as Commander in Chief, had the right to be concerned about foreign interference in the 2016 elections and Burisma, Hill said she had never been instructed that those matters were a concern of U.S. national security.

In his testimony, David Holmes, a state department aide in Kyiv, described a cellphone conversation at a restaurant in which he overheard Trump ask Sondland about "investigations" and heard Sondland tell Trump the Ukrainians had agreed to. Holmes also recounted a conversation with Sondland in which he warned him that the Ukraine caper would blow up. "Ambassador Sondland, Gordon, I think this is also going to blow up," Holmes said. "And here we are."

Hill's opening statement was laser-focused on one key message: the notion that Ukraine and not Russia interfered in the 2016 election is a "fictional narrative that has been perpetrated and propagated by the Russian security services themselves." Hill's testimony was a stark reminder of the ongoing threat of Russian interference in U.S. elections and the need for the U.S. government to take action to prevent it.

Throughout her hours of testimony, Hill remained unflappable, providing detailed and insightful answers to the committee's questions. Her testimony was a brilliant synopsis of the entire Ukraine caper, and it showed why Adam Schiff, the Intelligence Committee chairman, and the Democrats chose to make Hill one of the two final witnesses, at least in this round of hearings.

In conclusion, Fiona Hill and David Holmes' testimony before the House Intelligence Committee provided new insights into the Ukraine scandal and the ongoing threat of Russian interference in U.S. elections. Their testimony was a stark reminder of the need for the U.S. government to take action to prevent foreign interference in U.S. elections and to hold those responsible for such interference accountable.
Title: Fiona Hill and David Holmes Testify in House Intelligence Committee Hearing on Ukraine

In a highly anticipated hearing before the House Intelligence Committee on Thursday, Fiona Hill, the former top Russia expert on the National Security Council, and David Holmes, an aide in the United States Embassy in Kyiv, testified about the events surrounding the Ukraine scandal. Hill, who reported directly to former National Security Advisor John Bolton, used her opening remarks to warn of potential Russian interference in the upcoming 2020 election, stating that the notion that Ukraine had meddled in the 2016 election was a "fictional narrative that has been perpetrated and propagated by the Russian security services themselves."
During her testimony, Hill remained unflappable, even as ranking minority member Rep. Devin Nunes of California continued to press the issue of whether President Trump had the right to be concerned about foreign interference in the 2016 elections and Burisma. Hill stated that she had never been instructed that those matters were a concern of U.S. national security.
David Holmes, a state department aide in Kyiv, also testified, describing a cellphone conversation at a restaurant in which he overheard Trump ask Ambassador Gordon Sondland about "investigations" and heard Sondland tell Trump the Ukrainians had agreed to them. Holmes' testimony was significant as it provided a firsthand account of the President's direct involvement in the Ukraine scandal.
In his closing remarks, Chairman Adam Schiff praised Hill's testimony, stating that it was a "brilliant synopsis of the entire Ukraine caper" and that it showed why she was chosen as one of the final witnesses in this round of hearings. Hill's opening statement, which focused on the potential for Russian interference in the 2020 election, was laser-focused and served as a stark warning to the American people about the ongoing threat of foreign interference in our democracy.
Overall, the testimony of Fiona Hill and David Holmes provided new insights into the Ukraine scandal and underscored the importance of ongoing investigations into foreign interference in our elections. As the 2020 election approaches, it is clear that we must remain vigilant and take steps to protect our democracy from those who seek to undermine it.
Title: Fiona Hill and David Holmes Testify in Impeachment Inquiry, Warn of Russian Interference in 2020 Election

Fiona Hill, the former top Russia expert on the National Security Council, and David Holmes, an aide in the United States Embassy in Kyiv, testified on Thursday before the House Intelligence Committee in the impeachment inquiry of President Donald Trump. Hill and Holmes provided insight into the Ukraine scandal and warned of potential Russian interference in the 2020 election.

Hill, who reported directly to former National Security Advisor John Bolton, used her opening remarks to warn of Russian interference in the next election. She called theories that Ukraine had meddled in the U.S. 2016 elections "fictions" and "harmful." Hill stated that she had never been instructed that matters such as foreign interference in the 2016 elections and Burisma were a concern of U.S. national security.

When ranking minority member Rep. Devin Nunes of California continued to press the issue, asking Hill if Trump, as Commander in Chief, had the right to be concerned about foreign interference in the 2016 elections and Burisma, Hill said she had never been instructed that those matters were a concern of U.S. national security.

In his testimony, David Holmes, a state department aide in Kyiv, described a cellphone conversation at a restaurant in which he overheard Trump ask Sondland about "investigations" and heard Sondland tell Trump the Ukrainians had agreed to cooperate. Holmes said that he told Sondland that the request for investigations was inappropriate and that he believed it would lead to trouble. Holmes testified that Sondland dismissed his concerns, saying that "everyone was in on it."

Hill's opening statement was laser-focused on one key message: the notion that Ukraine and not Russia interfered in the 2016 election - a conspiracy theory that Trump pressed Ukraine to investigate - is a "fictional narrative that has been perpetrated and propagated by the Russian security services themselves." Hill's testimony provided a clear warning of potential Russian interference in the 2020 election and the need for the U.S. to be vigilant in protecting its democracy.

The testimony of Hill and Holmes provided a stark reminder of the ongoing threat of foreign interference in U.S. elections and the importance of holding those responsible accountable. As the impeachment inquiry continues, it remains to be seen what impact the testimony of Hill and Holmes will have on the proceedings and the future of U.S. democracy.
On Thursday, Fiona Hill, the former top Russia expert on the National Security Council, and David Holmes, an aide in the United States Embassy in Kyiv, testified before the House Intelligence Committee, providing insight into the alleged pressure campaign by President Trump and his allies on Ukraine.
Hill, who reported directly to former National Security Advisor John Bolton, started the proceedings by warning of potential Russian interference in the upcoming 2020 election. She called the theory that Ukraine had meddled in the 2016 election "fictional" and "harmful." When asked by ranking minority member Rep. Devin Nunes of California if Trump had the right to be concerned about foreign interference in the 2016 elections and Burisma, Hill stated that she had never been instructed that those matters were a concern of U.S. national security.
In his testimony, Holmes recounted a cellphone conversation between him and US ambassador to the European Union Gordon Sondland at a restaurant in Kyiv. During this conversation, Holmes overheard Trump asking Sondland about "investigations" and heard Sondland tell Trump that the Ukrainians had agreed to pursue them. Holmes stated, "And I did say to him, 'Ambassador Sondland, Gordon, I think this is also going to blow up.' And here we are."
Hill's remarks were laser-focused on the notion that the idea of Ukraine, not Russia, interfering in the 2016 election is a conspiracy theory that was pushed by Russia's security services. This narrative was the key message that Hill aimed to deliver and was the reason why she was chosen as one of the final witnesses in this round of hearings. She remained unflappable throughout her hours of testimony and continued to reiterate her key message of warning against Russian interference in the upcoming election.
In conclusion, the testimonies of Hill and Holmes provided a glimpse into the alleged pressure campaign by President Trump and his allies on Ukraine. Hill's opening statement was a stark warning against Russian interference in the upcoming election, emphasizing the need to remain vigilant against foreign interference in the democratic process.
Title: Fiona Hill and David Holmes Testify in Impeachment Inquiry, Warn of Russian Interference

On Thursday, Fiona Hill, the former top Russia expert on the National Security Council, and David Holmes, an aide in the United States Embassy in Kyiv, testified before the House Intelligence Committee. The pair provided crucial insights into the ongoing impeachment inquiry into President Trump's interactions with Ukraine and warned of potential Russian interference in the upcoming 2020 election.

Hill, who reported directly to former National Security Advisor John Bolton, used her opening remarks to warn of the potential for Russian interference in the 2020 election. She also called out the theory that Ukraine had meddled in the U.S. 2016 election as "fiction" and "harmful." When ranking minority member Rep. Devin Nunes continued to press the issue, Hill stated that she had never been instructed that Trump's concerns about foreign interference in the 2016 elections and Burisma were matters of national security.

David Holmes, a state department aide in Kyiv, also took to the stand, describing a conversation at a restaurant where he overheard Trump asking Sondland about "investigations" and heard Sondland tell Trump that the Ukrainians had agreed to conduct them.

Throughout her hours of testimony, Hill remained unflappable, delivering a laser-focused message that the notion that Ukraine and not Russia interfered in the 2016 election is a "fictional narrative that has been perpetrated and propagated by the Russian security services themselves." Hill's testimony was a clear warning that the Kremlin is still attempting to influence the American political system, and that the U.S. must remain vigilant in safeguarding against such interference.

Hill and Holmes's testimony provided further evidence that President Trump's actions toward Ukraine were potentially illegal or impeachable and raised further concerns about Russia's potential interference in the upcoming election. The pair's testimony was also a reminder of the critical role that professionals within the U.S. government play in ensuring the country's security and stability, and of the importance of their continued work to safeguard American interests.
**"Fiona Hill and David Holmes Testify Before House Intelligence Committee, Debunking Ukraine Conspiracy Theories and Warning of Russian Interference in 2020 Election"**

In a dramatic and revealing hearing on Thursday, two key witnesses testified before the House Intelligence Committee, shedding new light on the Ukraine scandal and debunking conspiracy theories that have been at the center of the impeachment inquiry.

Fiona Hill, the former top Russia expert on the National Security Council, and David Holmes, an aide in the United States Embassy in Kyiv, provided detailed and damning testimony that contradicted the narrative pushed by President Trump and his allies that Ukraine, rather than Russia, interfered in the 2016 presidential election.

Hill, who reported directly to former National Security Advisor John Bolton, used her opening remarks to warn of the dangers of Russian interference in the 2020 election. She described the conspiracy theory that Ukraine meddled in the 2016 election as a "fictional narrative that has been perpetrated and propagated by the Russian security services themselves."

"This is a Russian intelligence operation," Hill said, her voice firm and authoritative. "I refuse to be part of an effort to legitimize an alternative narrative that the Ukrainian government is responsible for what happened in 2016."

Hill's testimony was a direct rebuke to the President and his allies, who have repeatedly pushed the debunked conspiracy theory that Ukraine, rather than Russia, was responsible for hacking into the Democratic National Committee's email server and interfering in the 2016 election.

Ranking minority member Rep. Devin Nunes of California attempted to press Hill on the issue, asking if Trump, as Commander in Chief, had the right to be concerned about foreign interference in the 2016 elections and Burisma, a Ukrainian energy company that had ties to Hunter Biden, the son of former Vice President Joe Biden.

Hill was unflappable, responding that she had never been instructed that these matters were a concern of U.S. national security. "I have never been asked to investigate Burisma or the Bidens," she said.

David Holmes, a state department aide in Kyiv, provided corroborating testimony, describing a cellphone conversation he overheard at a restaurant in which Trump asked Ambassador Gordon Sondland about "investigations" and heard Sondland tell Trump that the Ukrainians had agreed to investigate the Bidens.

"I did say to him, 'Ambassador Sondland, Gordon, I think this is also going to blow up,'" Holmes testified. "And here we are."

Holmes' testimony was a stunning revelation, providing firsthand evidence of the President's direct involvement in pressuring Ukraine to investigate his political rivals.

The testimony of Hill and Holmes was a devastating blow to the President's defense, and provided further evidence of the need for impeachment proceedings to continue. As the hearings come to a close, it is clear that the President's actions in Ukraine were a clear abuse of power, and that he has put the national security of the United States at risk.

As Hill warned, the threat of Russian interference in the 2020 election is real, and it is imperative that the American people are aware of the dangers of Russian disinformation and propaganda. The testimony of Hill and Holmes is a wake-up call, and a reminder of the importance of protecting our democracy from foreign interference.
**Former Russia Expert Fiona Hill and Aide David Holmes Testify Before House Intelligence Committee, Warning of Russian Interference in 2020 Election**

In a dramatic and revealing day of testimony before the House Intelligence Committee, former top Russia expert Fiona Hill and David Holmes, an aide in the United States Embassy in Kyiv, shed new light on the Ukraine scandal and warned of potential Russian interference in the 2020 election.

Hill, who served as the top Russia expert on the National Security Council, was unflappable throughout her hours of testimony, as she delivered a scathing rebuke of the conspiracy theory that Ukraine meddled in the 2016 U.S. elections. "This is a fictional narrative that has been perpetrated and propagated by the Russian security services themselves," Hill stated in her opening remarks.

Hill's testimony was a direct challenge to President Trump's claims that Ukraine, rather than Russia, interfered in the 2016 election. She also warned that the same Russian security services that spread disinformation about Ukraine's role in the 2016 election are likely to try to interfere in the 2020 election.

Ranking minority member Rep. Devin Nunes of California pressed Hill on the issue, asking if Trump, as Commander in Chief, had the right to be concerned about foreign interference in the 2016 elections and Burisma, a Ukrainian energy company that hired Hunter Biden, the son of former Vice President Joe Biden. Hill responded that she had never been instructed that those matters were a concern of U.S. national security.

David Holmes, a state department aide in Kyiv, provided a damning account of a cellphone conversation he overheard between President Trump and Ambassador Gordon Sondland, in which Trump asked about "investigations" and Sondland told Trump that the Ukrainians had agreed to investigate. Holmes testified that he told Sondland after the call, "I think this is also going to blow up." Holmes' testimony corroborated earlier accounts of the conversation, which has been at the center of the impeachment inquiry.

Hill's testimony was a masterclass in diplomacy and expertise, as she deftly navigated complex questions from lawmakers and provided a clear and concise explanation of the threat posed by Russian interference. Her warning about the potential for Russian interference in the 2020 election was a stark reminder of the ongoing threat to American democracy.

As the impeachment inquiry continues, Hill's testimony will likely be seen as a pivotal moment in the proceedings. Her expertise and credibility have been widely respected, and her warnings about Russian interference are a sobering reminder of the stakes involved.

In a statement after the hearing, Chairman Adam Schiff praised Hill's testimony, saying, "Dr. Hill's testimony was a powerful reminder of the threat posed by Russian interference and the importance of protecting our democracy. We will continue to follow the evidence and hold those responsible for their actions."

The testimony of Hill and Holmes marked the final day of public hearings in the impeachment inquiry, but the investigation is far from over. As the House Intelligence Committee prepares to draft its report, the American public will be watching closely to see how lawmakers respond to the mounting evidence of wrongdoing by the Trump administration.
**"Fiona Hill and David Holmes Deliver Damning Testimony, Warning of Russian Interference in 2020 Election"**

In a dramatic and intense hearing before the House Intelligence Committee on Thursday, two key witnesses delivered scathing testimony that implicated President Trump and his administration in the ongoing Ukraine scandal. Fiona Hill, the former top Russia expert on the National Security Council, and David Holmes, an aide in the United States Embassy in Kyiv, provided firsthand accounts of the events leading up to the withholding of military aid to Ukraine and the President's efforts to pressure the country to investigate his political rival, Joe Biden.

Hill, who reported directly to former National Security Advisor John Bolton, used her opening remarks to warn of the dangers of Russian interference in the 2020 election. She stated that the notion that Ukraine had meddled in the 2016 elections was a "fictional narrative that has been perpetrated and propagated by the Russian security services themselves." Hill emphasized that this conspiracy theory, which has been repeatedly pushed by Trump, is not only false but also "harmful" to the United States.

When questioned by ranking minority member Rep. Devin Nunes (R-CA), Hill remained unflappable, explaining that she had never been instructed that the investigation of Burisma, a Ukrainian energy company linked to Biden's son Hunter, was a concern of U.S. national security. Her testimony directly contradicted Trump's claims that he was justified in withholding military aid to Ukraine due to concerns about corruption.

David Holmes, a state department aide in Kyiv, provided a stunning account of a cellphone conversation he overheard at a restaurant in July, in which Trump asked Ambassador Gordon Sondland about "investigations" and Sondland told Trump that the Ukrainians had agreed to investigate the Bidens. Holmes testified that he was taken aback by the conversation and warned Sondland that the situation was going to "blow up." His testimony corroborated previous accounts of the conversation and provided further evidence of Trump's direct involvement in the scandal.

Hill's testimony also highlighted the risks of Russian interference in the 2020 election, warning that the country's security services are likely to continue their efforts to meddle in U.S. politics. Her warning was echoed by Holmes, who expressed concern that the administration's handling of the Ukraine scandal had created a "nightmare" scenario for U.S. national security.

The testimony of Hill and Holmes marked the final public hearing in this round of impeachment proceedings, and it left little doubt that Trump's actions in Ukraine were driven by a desire to advance his own personal interests rather than the interests of the United States. As the House Intelligence Committee prepares to draft its report on the investigation, the evidence presented by Hill and Holmes will undoubtedly play a significant role in shaping the case against the President.

In his closing remarks, Chairman Adam Schiff (D-CA) thanked Hill and Holmes for their bravery and emphasized the importance of their testimony in shedding light on the truth behind the Ukraine scandal. "We owe a debt of gratitude to these two witnesses for their courage and integrity," Schiff said. "Their testimony has been a powerful reminder of the importance of standing up for the truth, even in the face of overwhelming opposition."
**Former Russia Expert Fiona Hill and Aide David Holmes Testify Before House Intelligence Committee, Debunking Ukraine Meddling Theory**

In a dramatic and insightful hearing, Fiona Hill, the former top Russia expert on the National Security Council, and David Holmes, an aide in the United States Embassy in Kyiv, testified before the House Intelligence Committee on Thursday. The two witnesses provided significant insight into the Trump administration's dealings with Ukraine, further debunking the conspiracy theory that Ukraine meddled in the 2016 U.S. presidential election.

Fiona Hill, who reported directly to former National Security Advisor John Bolton, began her testimony by warning of potential Russian interference in the 2020 election. She described the theory that Ukraine interfered in the 2016 election as a "fictional narrative" that has been "perpetuated and propagated by the Russian security services themselves." Hill's opening statement was a direct rebuke to President Trump's claims that Ukraine had meddled in the election, and her words carried significant weight given her extensive experience on the National Security Council.

During her testimony, Hill remained composed and unflappable, even as ranking minority member Rep. Devin Nunes of California pressed her on the issue. Nunes asked Hill if Trump, as Commander in Chief, had the right to be concerned about foreign interference in the 2016 elections and Burisma, a Ukrainian energy company that had ties to the Biden family. Hill replied that she had never been instructed that these matters were a concern of U.S. national security.

David Holmes, a state department aide in Kyiv, provided corroborating testimony, describing a cellphone conversation he overheard at a restaurant in which Trump asked Ambassador Gordon Sondland about "investigations" and Sondland replied that the Ukrainians had agreed to investigate. Holmes also revealed that he had expressed concerns to Sondland about the implications of investigating the Bidens, saying, "And I did say to him, 'Ambassador Sondland, Gordon, I think this is also going to blow up.' And here we are."

Holmes' testimony was a bombshell, as it provided direct evidence of Trump's involvement in pressuring Ukraine to investigate the Bidens. His account also highlighted the concerns of career diplomats and officials who were aware of the implications of Trump's actions.

The testimony of Hill and Holmes was a significant development in the House impeachment inquiry, which has been investigating whether Trump abused his power by withholding military aid to Ukraine in exchange for an investigation into the Bidens. The two witnesses provided further evidence of Trump's dealings with Ukraine, and their accounts were seen as a damning indictment of the President's actions.

As the hearings came to a close, it was clear that Hill's warning about potential Russian interference in the 2020 election had struck a chord. Her testimony served as a reminder that the threat of foreign interference in U.S. elections is real, and that the country must remain vigilant in the face of Russian aggression.

The House Intelligence Committee is expected to continue its investigation, with more hearings and testimony scheduled in the coming weeks. As the inquiry continues, it remains to be seen what other revelations will come to light, but one thing is certain: the testimony of Fiona Hill and David Holmes has provided a significant blow to Trump's claims of Ukrainian meddling.
Here is a draft of the news article based on the provided topic and context:

**"Fiona Hill and David Holmes Testify Before House Intelligence Committee, Debunking Ukraine Conspiracy Theories"**

In a critical hearing before the House Intelligence Committee on Thursday, two key witnesses, Fiona Hill and David Holmes, delivered damning testimony that implicated President Trump and his allies in a brazen attempt to solicit foreign interference in the 2020 presidential election.

Fiona Hill, the former top Russia expert on the National Security Council, and David Holmes, an aide in the United States Embassy in Kyiv, testified about the administration's dealings with Ukraine, revealing a disturbing pattern of misconduct and deceit.

Hill, in her opening remarks, zeroed in on the debunked conspiracy theory that Ukraine, rather than Russia, interfered in the 2016 United States presidential election. She flatly called this notion a "fiction" and "harmful," emphasizing that it has been "perpetrated and propagated by the Russian security services themselves." Hill's comments served as a stark reminder that, despite overwhelming evidence, the Trump administration has refused to accept the conclusions of the U.S. intelligence community that Russia meddled in the 2016 election.

When Representative Devin Nunes (R-CA) questioned Hill about whether President Trump had the authority to investigate alleged Ukrainian interference in the 2016 election, Hill pointedly replied that she had never been instructed that Ukraine's actions were a national security concern. Hill's testimony made it clear that Trump's requests for Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky to investigate Joe Biden and his son Hunter Biden were motivated by personal and partisan interests rather than legitimate national security concerns.

Meanwhile, Holmes recounted a pivotal moment when he overheard President Trump speaking with Ambassador Gordon Sondland at a Kyiv restaurant. Holmes recalled that Trump asked Sondland about the status of "investigations" in Ukraine and that Sondland assured Trump that the Ukrainians had agreed to conduct investigations. In a moment of chilling portent, Holmes testified that he warned Sondland, "This is going to blow up." Holmes's testimony corroborates key details of the allegations lodged against President Trump, demonstrating that he did indeed seek to use his executive authority to pressure a foreign leader to assist his re-election campaign.

Thursday's hearing marked the conclusion of this round of public testimony in the House impeachment inquiry. With their powerful testimony, Hill and Holmes significantly advanced the understanding of the Trump administration's efforts to engage in election tampering and bribery. As the House Intelligence Committee moves toward compiling its report, which will provide the foundation for the House Judiciary Committee's impeachment decisions, Hill's words of warning against potential Russian interference in the 2020 election could not be more urgent or more pertinent.

"We should all be disturbed by the president's actions," Hill testified, "because they do nothing to advance U.S. interests or protect U.S. national security." The evidence presented Thursday reinforces the central charge against President Trump: that he has abdicated his constitutional duties to uphold and defend the United States by prioritizing his personal ambitions above all else.