Which country was neutral in World War 2?

As an expert in historical studies, I can provide an in-depth analysis of neutrality during World War II. It is important to understand that neutrality is a complex concept and its application during the war varied from country to country. The status of a country as neutral was often a matter of international recognition and the country's own actions during the conflict. Step 1: English Answer During World War II, several countries declared their intention to remain neutral. However, the reality of war often complicated this status, with many countries finding it difficult to maintain a position of non-alignment. The declaration of neutrality was an official stance taken by a country to not participate in the war, but it did not always mean that the country was free from the effects of the conflict. Among the European countries, the ones that are often recognized as having maintained a neutral stance throughout the war include Andorra, Ireland, Portugal, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, and the Vatican City (Holy See). It is worth noting that even these countries faced various challenges and criticisms regarding their neutrality. Andorra is a small principality located between France and Spain. It did not have a significant military force and remained largely unaffected by the war due to its geographic position and lack of strategic importance. Ireland declared its neutrality at the outset of the war, a decision that was influenced by its recent history as a newly independent state and the desire to avoid being drawn into another conflict. However, Ireland's neutrality was a source of controversy, particularly with its neighbor, the United Kingdom, which was a major combatant in the war. Portugal also declared neutrality and managed to maintain this stance throughout the war. Its leader, António de Oliveira Salazar, pursued a policy of economic self-sufficiency and diplomatic non-alignment. Spain, under the dictatorship of Francisco Franco, was officially neutral but had strong ties to the Axis powers. Spain's position was complex due to its recent civil war and the country's need to rebuild and avoid further conflict. Sweden maintained its neutrality through a policy of non-aggression and by allowing the transit of German troops to Norway. However, it also provided indirect support to the Allies through trade and intelligence sharing. Switzerland is perhaps the most well-known neutral country during World War II. Its neutrality was respected by both the Allies and the Axis due to its strategic position, strong military defenses, and a history of neutrality. Liechtenstein, a small principality nestled within Switzerland, also managed to maintain its neutrality, largely due to its small size and lack of strategic resources. Vatican City (Holy See), as the spiritual center of the Roman Catholic Church, maintained a position of neutrality and worked to provide humanitarian aid and diplomatic efforts to alleviate the suffering caused by the war. It is important to note that the neutrality of these countries was not absolute. Each faced unique challenges and made decisions that were influenced by a variety of factors, including their geopolitical situation, economic interests, and the shifting dynamics of the war. Step 2: Divider

Many countries made neutrality declarations during World War II. Most, however, became occupied, and in the end only the states of Andorra, Ireland, Portugal, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland (with Liechtenstein), and Vatican (the Holy See) remained neutral of the European countries closest to the war.