Hello and welcome to the intelligence on Economist Radio. I'm your host, Jason Palmer.

Every weekday, we provide a fresh perspective on the events shaping your world.

First, it was your television. Next, maybe your fridge.

In the future, absolutely every device in your home could contain a little computer connected

to the web.

The growing Internet of Things comes with new capabilities, but also huge new risks.

And take a look at the world's cities and some striking parallels emerge,

regardless of the geography or the history.

What makes cities such a draw?

We speak with Monica Smith, an archaeologist who says

there where the species fulfills its destiny.

But first...

Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro is remarkably resilient.

His socialist revolution is in ruins, the economy in tatters.

Venezuela's malnourished people are fleeing in droves.

But in spite of all that, the efforts of the opposition to restore democracy have so far failed, even with help from America.

Today we are announcing additional sanctions against

the repressive regime, targeting Maduro's inner circle and close advisors.

This week, the United States and more than a dozen Latin American countries will meet at the

United Nations to discuss how to increase pressure on the Maduro regime.

What will be the Trump administration's next move to help the Venezuelan people depose their dictator?

Our senior editor, Michael Reed, recently spoke with President Donald Trump's point man on Venezuela,

...