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The collapse of the Low Countries in May 1940 was precipitated by a catastrophic failure of diplomatic strategy. Following the remilitarization of the Rhineland, Belgium and the Netherlands retreated into a strict, armed neutrality, severing military coordination with France and Britain. This “Policy of Independence” created a strategic vacuum on France’s northern flank, preventing the Allies from preparing defensive lines in Belgium. Consequently, Allied forces were forced to execute the risky “Dyle Plan,” rushing into unprepared positions at the moment of invasion. The lack of interoperability, the delusion of the “Oslo States” bloc, and the swift capitulation of King Leopold…