I suspect there is also consideration of strategy here. The regime's lack of democratic approval is actually a benefit. A client state that has democratic app

I suspect there is also consideration of strategy here. The regime's lack of democratic approval is actually a benefit. A client state that has democratic approval has much more leeway to go against its master. A client regime that is unpopular with its population has no other base of support than the powerful country that put it there. This maximizes leverage.