To the US he was a dangerous terrorist set on destroying the liberty of the American people, probably by forcing them to listen to Boyzone cover versions of his classic pop songs. To the Russians, however, he is a commendable promoter of peace.
That is to say the Gorbachev Foundation, led by former Soviet leader Mikhail Gorbachev, will today present singer songwriter Cat Stevens, now known as Yusuf Islam of course, with a Man Of Peace Award in recognition of his constant support for promoting peace and condemnation of terrorism. The Foundation gives the award on an annual basis "to a distinguished personage of culture and entertainment for peace messages, fraternity and integration between nations".
So good for the Russians - though with that new version of 'Father and Son' recorded with Ronan Keating out next month perhaps the Americans had a point.