After World War II, Joseph Stalin strategically shaped Soviet-Mongolian relations to consolidate Soviet influence in the region while balancing diplomatic engagements with China. His meetings with Mongolian leader Khorloogiin Choibalsan, particularly in 1946 and 1947, focused on securing Mongolia’s independence, strengthening Soviet-Mongolian military and economic ties, and assessing potential unification with Inner Mongolia. Stalin’s insistence on maintaining Soviet troops in Mongolia ensured its geopolitical stability under Soviet protection. The Treaty of Friendship and Mutual Assistance between the USSR and the Mongolian People's Republic (MPR) formalized Soviet commitments, reinforcing Mongolia’s security against external threats. Stalin’s discussions also revealed his pragmatic approach—supporting Mongolian sovereignty but avoiding direct confrontation with China. His 1949 conversation with Choibalsan highlighted the complexities of unifying Inner and Outer Mongolia, demonstrating his reluctance to challenge China on this issue. Stalin’s last interactions with Mongolian leaders, including Choibalsan’s successor, Yumjaagiin Tsedenbal, continued to emphasize economic development, infrastructure expansion, and controlled engagement with China. Through these policies, Stalin ensured Mongolia’s alignment with Soviet interests, preventing Western influence while maintaining regional stability. His diplomatic maneuvers reflected broader Soviet objectives, demonstrating a continuity in Russian imperial strategy regarding Mongolia’s geopolitical role.