Okay, you consider it a cheat answer, that’s fair. But, just for the record, pokemon is a fantasy series. And the pokemon are a race of monsters.
But for a more typical answer, I’d go with either dragons cause they’re usually powerful and intelligent and can fly or warcraft’s taurens cause they’re like a hippie version of a minotaur. Strong and intelligent but with an affinity for nature. A tauren druid being a very fun combo with tons of versatility.
No idea why you’re downvoted. You’re right. USA not existing would suck for many people, yes. Especially Israel. Europe not so much.