Putin's whole plan was to subdue errant Ukraine and bring it into line as a former USSR subordinate. Ukraine was more prepared this time. Putin has a trump card, his nuclear, He knows he can invade any non aligned Nato country while reserving the right to use nuclear should Russia ever be attacked.There is some interesting stuff about the leadup to the war and possible peace agreements.
I fully agree with you that Zelensky should realize he doesn't need to fear Putin because his irrational fear of Russia has greatly contributed to him getting many of his own people killed and parts of his country destroyed.
That is the first step to a peaceful resolution.