"At some point we have to say, you know what, we're better off if Japan protects itself against this maniac in North Korea. We're better off, frankly, if South Korea is going to start to protect itself," Trump said at the time, referring to North Korean leader Kim Jong-un.

But on Sunday, Trump denied he ever made such a suggestion.

"The @nytimes states today that DJT believes 'more countries should acquire nuclear weapons.' How dishonest are they. I never said this!" Trump said in a Twitter message, rejecting The New York Times' criticism of his foreign policy.

Trump's nuclear armament suggestion sparked a firestorm of criticism from administration officials and security experts, and has been a main source of criticism of his foreign policy views.

Secretary of State John Kerry slammed the suggestion, saying nothing can be "more volatile" or "more contrary" to peace and stability.

Trump's suggestion has also fueled calls in South Korea for nuclear weapons development that have arisen in the wake of North Korea's fifth nuclear test in January. (Yonhap)