During the early years of World War II, Argentina maintained close relations with the Axis powers while officially remaining neutral. These close relations with the Axis irritated the United States, which cancelled weapons shipments to the country while increasing shipments to Argentina's neighbour, Brazil, in an attempt to pressure the Argentine government to abandon its ties with the Axis. Newly elected president Ramón Castillo drew Argentina closer to the Axis; in 1942 Argentina approached Germany with a request to purchase airplanes, weapons, and other equipment.
In the early years of World War II, Argentina maintained strong friendships with the Axis nations while officially staying out of the conflict. This close relationship with the Axis powers irritated the United States, which stopped sending military supplies to Argentina while increasing shipments to its neighboring country, Brazil, in an attempt to persuade Argentina to break ties with the Axis. Newly elected president Ramón Castillo strengthened Argentina's bond with the Axis; in 1942 Argentina approached Germany with a request to purchase planes, arms, and other equipment.