Frostwarrior

Okay I'm new to SC and enjoying it - reminds me of 3rd Reich on PC - and have read through lots of the posts but I can't figure out something - so any help appreciated. How does one invade the neutral countries formed after France falls (its europeans colonies) - like Algeria etc? I can't seem to move troops in - can't declare war etc? Do I need to use a map editor? I've got the latest patch. I'd really like to open up the North African front but I can't - anyone have any suggestion ideas? Thanks.