1. A semi-independent country that is controlled or strongly influenced by a more powerful nation, typically in matters of foreign policy while maintaining some degree of internal autonomy
During the Cold War, several Eastern European countries were essentially vassal states of the Soviet Union.
Durante a Guerra Fria, vários países da Europa Oriental eram essencialmente estados vassalos da União Soviética.
2. A territory or state that owes allegiance to a feudal lord or overlord while retaining some degree of sovereignty
In medieval times, many kingdoms became vassal states to more powerful empires.
Na Idade Média, muitos reinos se tornaram estados vassalos de impérios mais poderosos.