Oh, KNP, no I was not assuming Russia had to take the territories from Germany or Italy! They do not have too! They only need to control the territory!!!
Also, under the rules, IRELAND counts! Just how hard is it for Russia to get Ireland? Not very. Same with Crete. And yes, Spain and Portugal count too. The only European territories that do not count are: Scotland, England, France, W. France, S. France, Iceland, Gibraltar, Malta and Cyprus. All other territories (neutral or not) count as a 3 IPC NO for Russia now.
One thing I suggested is that, perhaps, if we are keeping this rule, then any American or British attack on any True Neutral not only makes all true neutrals pro-Axis but any on the Europe map are immediately controlled by Germany and any on the Pacific map are immediately controlled by Japan. After all, the allies were the “good guys” in the war, many of these nations just wanted to be left alone and felt that the allies would rescue them if they were attacked. Being betrayed so bitterly would almost certianly end in alliances with Axis powers, for their own protection. In terms of game effect, imagine all those German units popping up in S. America. They could be beaten back, but it’s going to be a heavy distraction for America for at least two turns.