After World War II, what was a major objective for Stalin in Eastern Europe?

A. to help these nations to recover from the war and rebuild their economies
B. to set up a buffer zone of friendly nations to protect Russia against Germany
C. to hold free elections and have these nations become part of the NATO alliance
D. to establish a strong European alliance to stimulate trade and prevent wars

B. to set up a buffer zone of friendly nations to protect Russia against Germany