Neo-imperialism: A policy that allows powerful countries to exert influence over others through indirect means such as cultural imperialism or economic dominance rather than direct political control.
Sphere of Influence: An area in which one nation has significant cultural, economic, military, or political influence over another.
Protectorate: A state that is controlled and protected by another sovereign state. It's a form of imperialism where the stronger state guarantees to protect the weaker one against invasion but can control its foreign affairs.