Judge rules that Donald Trump will not give testimony at New York fraud trial

Former US President Donald Trump will not be speaking during the closing day of his civil fraud trial in New York. Speculation arose about whether Trump would make a statement, but the judge shared emails demonstrating that he had not agreed to any limitations on what he could say. The judge informed Trump's lawyers to "take it or leave it," stating that it was now or never. Trump's legal team also requested a postponement of Thursday's hearing due to the death of Melania Trump's mother. However, Judge Arthur Engoran conveyed that the plans and schedules had already been set. During the trial, Trump and his two adult sons were accused of inflating the value of their properties to secure better loans, but they deny any wrongdoing. The judge has already ruled that they committed business fraud, but the trial is focused on six remaining charges, as well as the amount of fines that Trump will face. The prosecutor, New York Attorney General Letitia James, is seeking a $370 million fine and a ban on Trump conducting real estate business in New York. The judge released emails between himself and Trump's lawyers, indicating that speaking during the closing arguments would not be happening. Trump's lawyer initially requested a postponement due to a personal matter, but the judge denied the request. Trump's lawyer then stated that Trump would be speaking on Thursday, but the judge insisted on limitations. In a previous trial, the judge had implemented a gag order preventing Trump and his team from criticizing court staff. Trump's lawyer expressed frustration, but the judge maintained his position. As a result, Trump will not be speaking in court. The trial is expected to conclude on January 11, and the judge has indicated that the penalties will be determined by the end of the month.