Which strategy did Stalin use to strengthen his control over Eastern Europe?

Stalin's strategy to strengthen his control over Eastern Europe primarily involved setting up Communist governments in the countries within this region. This approach enabled him to create a buffer zone against the West and ensure that neighboring states aligned with Soviet ideologies and political frameworks. By installing pro-Soviet regimes, Stalin was able to exert extensive control over political, economic, and military aspects of these countries, thus solidifying his influence and preventing Western experimentation with democracy or capitalism that could challenge his authority.

Establishing Communist governments allowed for a uniformity of policies that aligned with his vision of socialism, facilitating the suppression of dissent and the consolidation of power within each nation. This manipulation of governance ensured that Eastern European countries remained loyal to the Soviet Union, thus forming a robust sphere of influence that was crucial during the early years of the Cold War.