Did russia continue to occupy conquered lands often controlling their governments?

Yes, russia continued to occupy conquered lands often controlling their governments. Following the military conquest of a territory, russia would establish a puppet government that was subservient to russia's interests. These puppet governments would often be led by local collaborators who were willing to cooperate with russia. russia would also station troops in the occupied territory to maintain control and prevent any resistance movements from emerging. In some cases, russia would also annex the occupied territory and incorporate it into russia itself.