Then of course there's the language barrier...i.e.-where are the AF A/C and what are they doing??? Hope you speak "Francais"...
Even the African Controllers (pick a Country, it doesn't matter) have a better command of "Aviation English" than the French...
First sentence is valid, but can't say there is much validity in the second.
Whilst it is not unusual for Americans to have to have some particular difficulties with instructions, I had always just put it down to accents, or the fact the patter wasn't being delivered at the speed of a tobbaco auctioneer!
I have always found French ATC to be professional and precise, when they are working.