after world war ii, the soviet union designated many of the countries of eastern europe as states…

Brief Explanations:

After World War II, the Soviet - Union had significant influence over Eastern European countries, which were called satellite states. These states had their own governments but were under the political and economic influence of the Soviet Union. They were not truly independent, and while some had democratic - like institutions, they were more aligned with Soviet interests. Occupied implies a more direct military control, which was not the main characteristic.

Answer:

B. satellite